The ICC has remanded former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte in custody
The International Criminal Court has decided to keep former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte in custody.
“The court has ruled that Duterte must remain in custody,” the ICC press office told journalists accredited to the court.
The court also noted that certain changes had occurred following a preliminary review of the issue of Duterte’s detention. In particular, November 30, 2026, was set as the date for the start of the trial. In addition, a panel of three medical experts appointed by the court submitted its findings regarding the defendant’s fitness to stand trial.
The prosecution disclosed to the defense the evidence it intends to use during the trial.
“In light of these developments, the ICC Chamber concludes that the likelihood of the accused appearing before the court and, if found guilty, being sentenced to a lengthy prison term has increased. Thus, there is a likelihood that the accused will abscond and/or obstruct the investigation or pose a threat to it or to the proceedings,” the court’s statement reads.
The Chamber emphasized that the medical experts’ reports do not contain information that could serve as a basis for revising the decision to keep Duterte in custody. The defense’s arguments also did not present any new facts or indicate a change in circumstances.
“Thus, the ICC Chamber has not identified any material changes in circumstances that would justify the release of the accused, with or without conditions. In light of this, the Chamber hereby orders that the accused remain in custody,” the court’s statement reads.
Former Philippine President Duterte appeared before the ICC in The Hague.
Former Kosovo President Thaçi was sentenced in The Hague to 25 years in prison.
