Philippine govt committed to fair trial for Duterte at ICC

The Philippine government remains committed to ensuring a fair trial for former President Rodrigo Duterte at the International Criminal Court (ICC), where he faces charges of crimes against humanity.

Atty. Claire Castro, Palace Press Officer Undersecretary, stated in a press briefing that RA 9851 mandates a fair trial for Duterte due to his status as a Filipino citizen.

While the government will not fund Duterte's legal defense and has no jurisdiction over ICC proceedings after turning him over, it remains responsible under Philippine law for any potential orders from the ICC, such as asset freezes.

Duterte was arrested on March 11 through Interpol with the government paying for his transportation to The Hague in the Netherlands.

ICC Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan praised Duterte's arrest as significant for victims and the pursuit of justice globally.

Duterte’s lawyer, Silvestre Bello, previously stated they will seek his temporary release from ICC custody during the trial, citing no justification for continued detention.