ICC prosecutors want experts to assess Duterte's mental fitness

International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutors have proposed appointing three independent medical experts to evaluate former president Rodrigo Duterte's mental fitness to stand trial.

These specialists are expected to assess his capacity, including the possibility of him feigning illness, and will focus on forensic psychiatry, neuropsychology, and behavioral neurology.

The proposal was detailed in a public ICC filing on October 9, 2025, with the prosecution advocating for a multidisciplinary panel.

The ICC Office of the Prosecutor explicitly wants the experts' mandate to include an evaluation of any evidence of malingering, or the fabrication of symptoms.

This medical fitness issue has somewhat slowed the pace of proceedings against Duterte, whose confirmation of charges hearing was initially scheduled for September 23.