ICC rules ex Philippine President Duterte to remain in detention

The International Criminal Court (ICC) on Wednesday ruled that former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte should remain in detention, finding no material change in circumstances that would warrant his release, reported Xinhua.

Trial Chamber III of the ICC, presided over by Judge Joanna Korner, issued the statement in its second decision on the review of Duterte's detention.

According to the ICC, Duterte's counsel raised the issue of his fitness to stand trial on May 25, 2026, and requested that he undergo a medical examination to assess his fitness. A panel of three court-appointed medical experts later submitted reports on the issue.

The Chamber said the medical reports contained no information warranting a change in Duterte's detention. It also said the defence's observations did not present any new facts or change in circumstances that would justify modifying his detention.

Duterte's Defence had previously sought his release on grounds including his age and declining health. The ICC rejected the request on Nov. 28, 2025.

Duterte, 81, appeared in person at the ICC in The Hague on Wednesday for a pre-trial hearing, marking his first public appearance before the Court in person. His initial appearance before the court took place on March 14, 2025 via video link.

On April 23, 2026, the ICC confirmed charges against Duterte and committed him to trial on allegations of crimes against humanity.

Duterte served as president of the Philippines from 2016 to 2022. He was arrested and transferred to ICC custody in March 2025 under a warrant related to his controversial anti-drug campaign, a move he has challenged.