ICC to review Duterte’s continued detention

National

THE International Criminal Court (ICC) has ordered a new review of the detention of former president Rodrigo Duterte ahead of his upcoming trial.

In a May 1 order, Trial Chamber III directed both parties to submit observations on whether Duterte should remain in custody or be released, “with or without conditions,” and to assess any “changed circumstances.”

“The Chamber observes that, pursuant to the statutory framework, the Accused’s pre-trial detention shall be reviewed at least every 120 days,” the judges said per a report by Philstar.

Duterte, 81, has been detained at the ICC facility in Scheveningen since March 2025 after being turned over to the court.

Earlier bids for his interim release were denied, with judges ruling he remains a flight risk and could threaten witnesses—decisions later upheld by the Appeals Chamber. His detention was also reaffirmed in January.

“In light of the developments following the annual hearing, the Chamber considers it necessary… to submit any observations… regarding the Accused’s continued detention or release,” the order added.

His defense team has also pushed to delay proceedings indefinitely, citing his declining health and claiming he is unfit to stand trial.(Zsarrhied Samantha A. Tanjay, CTU-TC BAEL-ELSD Intern)