Philippines ex‑leader Duterte makes first in‑person ICC appearance on crimes‑against‑humanity charges
THE HAGUE, Sept 16 — Former Philippines president Rodrigo Duterte appeared in person at the International Criminal...
Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte made his first in-person appearance at the International Criminal Court (ICC) on September 16, 2025, facing charges of crimes against humanity related to his "war on drugs" that resulted in thousands of murders. The 81-year-old appeared in a dark suit and white shirt, sitting with his chin on his hands as the proceedings opened, showing no emotion throughout the one-hour and 15-minute hearing.
Judge Joanna Korner noted his appearance, stating that he could leave the court at any time without seeking permission. The trial, set to begin on November 30, 2025, could take months or even years, with Duterte's defense team expressing concerns about the vast amount of evidence presented by the prosecution, which they deemed "impossible" to review.
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Also reported by 5 other outlets
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- Duterte returns to ICC courtroom as trial for crimes against humanity nears timesofisrael.com
- Philippines' Duterte seen in person for first time at International Criminal Court bbc.co.uk
- Duterte in person at ICC for first time over ‘war on drugs’ killings aljazeera.com