Philippines ex-leader Duterte makes first appearance at ICC
THE HAGUE: Former Philippines president Rodrigo Duterte appeared in person at the International Criminal Court for the first time Wednesday, as he faces charges over his “war on drugs” that killed thousands.
In The Hague, former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte made his first physical appearance at the International Criminal Court (ICC) on Wednesday. The 81-year-old faces charges of crimes against humanity related to his 2013-2018 war on drugs, which resulted in thousands of deaths. Since his arrest in March 2025, Duterte had only appeared via video link for his initial appearance, appearing confused and tired.
His defense team claims he suffers from significant memory impairment and is not mentally fit to follow proceedings. The trial is set to commence on November 30, and the judge has tasked three experts with conducting a medical assessment to determine Duterte's mental capacity. Prosecutors allege that Duterte killed at least 76 people during his tenure as mayor of Davao City and as president.
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