The Philippine government is committed to ensuring that former President Rodrigo Duterte receives a fair trial at the International Criminal Court (ICC) over charges of crimes against humanity, Malacañang said on Friday.
Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Atty. Claire Castro emphasized the government’s duty to uphold due process, citing Republic Act 9851.
“Based on RA 9851, as a Filipino—not just because he is a former president—our government must ensure that a fair trial is provided, especially since former President Duterte is a Filipino,” Castro stated in a press briefing.
Duterte is set to appear before ICC judges on Friday, where he will be formally informed of the charges against him and his rights as a defendant.
The former president faces allegations of murder as a crime against humanity, linked to his controversial anti-drug campaign, which human rights groups claim resulted in tens of thousands of deaths.
Legal Developments and Reactions
🔹 ICC Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan hailed Duterte’s arrest as a milestone for justice and victims of the drug war.
🔹 Duterte’s lawyer, Silvestre Bello, revealed plans to seek his temporary release, arguing that there is no basis for his continued detention.
🔹 ICC rules allow accused individuals to request interim release under specific conditions.