International Politics & Legal Affairs
Duterte Confirms Well-Being from ICC Custody, Denies Disappearance Claims
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March 14, MANILA — The Philippine Embassy in The Hague confirmed on Friday that former President Rodrigo Duterte has assured officials of his well-being following a medical evaluation while in International Criminal Court (ICC) custody. In a statement, the embassy disclosed that Duterte initiated contact on Thursday, March 13, informing consular officers he was “generally fine” and had received medical care.
The communication comes amid speculation over Duterte’s whereabouts after his former Executive Secretary, Salvador Medialdea, claimed the ICC had denied his request to visit the ex-leader, stating “no Duterte” was held at their facility. These remarks fueled social media rumors of Duterte’s disappearance, which the embassy later countered by clarifying that Duterte himself had spoken directly with Medialdea, his legal counsel, on Thursday.
Consular and Legal Requests Forwarded
Duterte has formally requested consular access and visits from his legal team and a family member, according to the embassy. These appeals were relayed to the ICC Registry, with the embassy pledging to expedite arrangements. “We are coordinating with the ICC to facilitate these visits promptly,” the statement added.
Arrest and Charges
Duterte was detained on Tuesday under an ICC warrant tied to allegations of crimes against humanity during his anti-drug campaign, which reportedly caused thousands of deaths between 2011 and 2019. His transfer to The Hague followed a tense standoff at Villamor Airbase, where he resisted arrest, allegedly threatening law enforcement and refusing biometric procedures.
Legal Justifications and Next Steps
The Philippine Department of Justice defended the arrest’s legality, referencing Republic Act 9851, which permits the surrender of individuals to international courts for crimes against humanity. Justice Assistant Secretary Mico Clavano emphasized adherence to domestic and international protocols, dismissing claims of forced extraction as disinformation.
Duterte is scheduled for an initial appearance before the ICC’s Pre-Trial Chamber, where charges will be formally presented. The hearing marks a pivotal step in a case that has drawn global attention to the Philippines’ controversial drug war.
Background: The ICC’s investigation into Duterte’s administration centers on extrajudicial killings linked to his narcotics crackdown, a policy he vigorously defended during his 2016–2022 presidency. The court’s jurisdiction, contested by Manila in 2019, remains a contentious issue in the ongoing proceedings.
The communication comes amid speculation over Duterte’s whereabouts after his former Executive Secretary, Salvador Medialdea, claimed the ICC had denied his request to visit the ex-leader, stating “no Duterte” was held at their facility. These remarks fueled social media rumors of Duterte’s disappearance, which the embassy later countered by clarifying that Duterte himself had spoken directly with Medialdea, his legal counsel, on Thursday.
Consular and Legal Requests Forwarded
Duterte has formally requested consular access and visits from his legal team and a family member, according to the embassy. These appeals were relayed to the ICC Registry, with the embassy pledging to expedite arrangements. “We are coordinating with the ICC to facilitate these visits promptly,” the statement added.
Arrest and Charges
Duterte was detained on Tuesday under an ICC warrant tied to allegations of crimes against humanity during his anti-drug campaign, which reportedly caused thousands of deaths between 2011 and 2019. His transfer to The Hague followed a tense standoff at Villamor Airbase, where he resisted arrest, allegedly threatening law enforcement and refusing biometric procedures.
Legal Justifications and Next Steps
The Philippine Department of Justice defended the arrest’s legality, referencing Republic Act 9851, which permits the surrender of individuals to international courts for crimes against humanity. Justice Assistant Secretary Mico Clavano emphasized adherence to domestic and international protocols, dismissing claims of forced extraction as disinformation.
Duterte is scheduled for an initial appearance before the ICC’s Pre-Trial Chamber, where charges will be formally presented. The hearing marks a pivotal step in a case that has drawn global attention to the Philippines’ controversial drug war.
Background: The ICC’s investigation into Duterte’s administration centers on extrajudicial killings linked to his narcotics crackdown, a policy he vigorously defended during his 2016–2022 presidency. The court’s jurisdiction, contested by Manila in 2019, remains a contentious issue in the ongoing proceedings.