ICC unlikely to grant Duterte interim release due to flight risk and evidence tampering concerns

An ICC-accredited lawyer stated on Monday that former President Rodrigo Duterte's request for interim release from the ICC is unlikely to be granted due to concerns about him posing a flight risk and jeopardizing evidence integrity.

Atty. Joel Butuyan, chairperson of the Center for International Law, explained that granting Duterte release could lead to witness intimidation and tampering with evidence, further complicating legal proceedings.

Butuyan also highlighted recent protests by Duterte supporters in both the Netherlands and the Philippines as reasons why interim release is unlikely.

ICC Assistant to Counsel Kristina Conti warned on Wednesday that allowing Duterte's interim release could harm witnesses or tamper with evidence, emphasizing his significant capacity for witness intimidation.

The ICC allows detainees to apply for interim release pending trial but requires a demonstration of extreme necessity, which Butuyan believes Duterte's camp will struggle to prove based on health concerns.

Conti noted the importance of insider witnesses like former Davao Death Squad members in establishing how Duterte's alleged extrajudicial killings were ordered and carried out.

The next hearing is set for September 23, 2025, focusing on confirming charges against Duterte, while Butuyan supports calls for the Philippines to rejoin the ICC to prevent similar human rights violations.