ICC rules ex-Philippine president Duterte fit for trial
Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 8 Oct, 21:00 · Archive
The International Criminal Court has ruled that former Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte is fit to stand trial on crimes against humanity charges.
The International Criminal Court in The Hague has ruled that former Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte is fit to stand trial on crimes against humanity charges. Independent medical experts examined the 81-year-old's health, clearing the way for proceedings to begin on 30 November.
Duterte is accused of multiple counts of murder and attempted murder in connection with his country's 'war on drugs'. The campaign began in Davao, where he served as mayor, before expanding nationwide during his presidency from 2016 to 2022. Death squads were deployed, killing dealers, producers and addicts. Human rights organisations estimate that 30,000 people were killed, with suspects often summarily executed without trial.
Duterte was arrested in Manila in March 2025 based on an ICC arrest warrant and flown to the Netherlands. He has denied all charges. He had previously failed to appear at several hearings, with his defence lawyers citing health reasons, but appeared before judges for the first time at a hearing in September.
How it is being reported
- ICC rules ex-Philippine president fit to stand trialFormer Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte is fit to stand trial and able to face charges of crimes against humanity, the International Criminal Court says.Perth Now · 8 Oct, 20:28
- ICC rules ex-Philippine president fit to stand trialFormer Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte is fit to stand trial and able to face charges of crimes against humanity, the International Criminal Court says.The West Australian · 8 Oct, 20:28
In this story: Rodrigo Duterte · International Criminal Court · The Hague · Philippines · Davao · Manila · Netherlands
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