The hague: The International Criminal Court (ICC) has rejected former Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte's appeal for interim release, citing concerns over his potential flight risk. The ICC Pre-Trial Chamber I, in a decision dated October 10, emphasized the necessity of Duterte's continued detention to ensure his presence during upcoming pre-trial proceedings and a possible trial.
According to Philippines News Agency, the court's decision was influenced by several factors, including the Duterte family's public opposition to his arrest and their calls for his immediate return to the Philippines. The chamber highlighted a reported statement from Vice President Sara Duterte, suggesting her father's desire to return to Davao City if released, which contradicted his defense team's claims that he would remain in the state to which he would be released. This, the court argued, demonstrated Duterte's rejection of the proceedings and the likelihood of his family's assistance in evading detention and prosecution.
The 23-page decision also pointed out Duterte's potential political leverage as a former president and his network of support in the Philippines, which could facilitate his evasion of justice. The court document, signed by Presiding Judge Iulia Antoanella Motoc, and Judges Reine Ad©lade Sophie Alapini-Gansou and Mara del Socorro Flores Liera, warned that returning to Davao City could allow Duterte to commit further crimes related to the charges against him.
The chamber underscored Duterte's sustained popularity, as reflected in his election as Davao City mayor in May 2025, as an additional concern. It concluded that Duterte's detention is essential to prevent him from obstructing or endangering the investigation, the court's proceedings, and to avert the commission of related crimes within the ICC's jurisdiction.
Duterte is facing multiple charges, including several counts of murder and attempted murder, classified as crimes against humanity. These charges stem from his controversial anti-drug campaign during his tenure as both mayor of Davao City and president of the Philippines.
