Philippines ex-leader Duterte makes first appearance at ICC

The Hague: Former Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte made his inaugural appearance in person at the International Criminal Court (ICC) on Wednesday, facing charges of crimes against humanity related to his anti-drug war that resulted in thousands of deaths. The 81-year-old had previously appeared via video link but had since missed hearings, claiming he was too ill.

Dressed in a dark suit and white shirt, Duterte appeared in court with his chin resting on his hands as proceedings began. Judge Joanna Korner acknowledged his first-time appearance and stated that he could leave the court at any moment without permission. Accused of three counts of crimes against humanity, prosecutors allege Duterte's involvement in at least 76 murders between 2013 and 2018 during his crackdown on drug users and sellers.

He is the first former head of state from Asia to face trial at the ICC, which prosecutes individuals for the world's worst crimes. Judge Korner set November 30 as the trial's start date, which could last months or even years. Relatives of victims welcomed Duterte's physical presence in court, hoping it would hasten the justice they seek.

Duterte's defense team contends he is not mentally fit to follow proceedings and that his condition worsens. His lawyers submitted evidence suggesting he has significant memory impairment, believes he is living in 2007 or 2008, and cannot recall the current U.S. president. The prosecution alleges Duterte ordered a death squad in Davao City, where he was mayor before becoming president. The trial's outcome may encourage more families to come forward with their stories.