Rodrigo Duterte Appears via Video Link at ICC in War on Drugs Case

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Former Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte made his first appearance before the International Criminal Court (ICC) via video link on March 14, 2025, following his arrest in Manila related to charges of crimes against humanity stemming from his controversial "war on drugs" campaign. The hearing served to formally inform Duterte of the charges, although he did not physically attend due to having just arrived from a long flight, as noted by presiding judge Iulia Antoanella Motoc.

Duterte's attorney, Salvador Medialdea, described the former leader's arrest as an "extrajudicial rendition" and accused the Philippine government of undermining its sovereignty by complying with the ICC arrest warrant. His lawyer also claimed Duterte was facing significant health issues.

A key pre-trial hearing is scheduled for September 23, which will determine whether the evidence is sufficient to proceed to trial. If convicted, Duterte could face a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. The situation unfolds amid increasing tensions within the Philippine political arena, especially between the Duterte and Marcos families, as President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. navigates a complex political landscape.

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