Rodrigo Duterte Makes First ICC Appearance via Video Link

Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte made his initial appearance before the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague on Friday, March 14, 2025, via video link.

The 79-year-old former leader faces charges of crimes against humanity related to his controversial "war on drugs" campaign.

During the brief hearing, Duterte, appearing frail and dressed in a blue suit and tie, confirmed his name and date of birth. The presiding judge allowed him to follow proceedings remotely due to the long flight to The Hague. Duterte is accused of orchestrating a widespread and systematic attack against civilians in the Philippines, resulting in potentially tens of thousands of killings, according to ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan.

Duterte's lawyer, Salvador Medialdea, argued that his client had been "abducted" from the Philippines and was suffering from "debilitating medical issues." Medialdea claimed the transfer to The Hague amounted to "extrajudicial rendition" or "pure and simple kidnapping."

The former president's arrest and transfer to ICC custody on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, marked a significant moment in international criminal justice. Gilbert Andres, a lawyer representing victims of the drug war, hailed the arrest as "a great signal for international criminal justice," emphasizing that no one is above the law.

Duterte's daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte, is in the Netherlands to support her father. She has called his arrest "oppression and persecution" and attempted to delay the hearing. The case has further strained relations between the Duterte and Marcos families, former political allies who are now at odds.

As the proceedings begin, Prosecutor Khan emphasized that Duterte is presumed innocent at this stage. The case represents a pivotal moment for the ICC and international justice, as Duterte becomes the first Asian former head of state to face charges before the court.