IN A landmark legal proceeding, former President Rodrigo Duterte made his first appearance before the International Criminal Court (ICC) via video link, where his defense team launched a blistering attack on the court, alleging “kidnapping” and political motivations.
The hearing, while procedural, set the stage for a protracted legal battle, with the court scheduling the confirmation of charges hearing for Sept. 23, 2025.
The session, presided over by Judge Iulia Motoc, began with standard introductions and procedural formalities.
Prosecutor Karim Khan and his team confirmed their presence, while Duterte, citing a “long journey involving a considerable time difference,” participated remotely. His counsel, Salvador Medialdea, was present in the courtroom.
Judge Motoc clarified the limited scope of the initial appearance, emphasizing it was neither a trial nor a confirmation of charges hearing. The purpose was to inform Duterte of the charges against him, outline his rights, and set a date for the next stage of the proceedings.
Duterte confirmed his identity, stating his full name and date of birth. The charges, read by the court officer, detailed allegations of murder as a crime against humanity, stemming from his involvement with the Davao Death Squad and killings during his presidency’s war on drugs.
Judge Motoc then outlined Duterte’s rights, including the right to legal representation, interpretation, and the right to remain silent. However, it was Medialdea’s intervention that dramatically shifted the tone of the hearing.
Medialdea delivered a scathing critique of the ICC, accusing the court of “extrajudicial rendition” and “kidnapping.” He claimed Duterte was denied legal recourse in the Philippines and forcibly transported to The Hague, alleging political motivations behind the arrest.
“Two troubled entities struck an unlikely alliance,” Medialdea asserted, implying collusion between the current Philippine administration and the ICC. He argued that Duterte’s transfer involved coordinated efforts, questioning the role of the United Arab Emirates as a transit point.
Medialdea also raised concerns about Duterte’s health, citing his age and medical issues. He claimed limited access to his client, stating he was unable to fully brief Duterte on the charges and the prosecution’s evidence. He requested a postponement of the hearing, a request that was promptly denied by Judge Motoc.
Judge Motoc addressed the health concerns, stating that court doctors found Duterte mentally fit and able to participate via video link. She also affirmed that Duterte was informed of his rights and the charges.
Despite Medialdea’s protests, the court proceeded to set the date for the confirmation of charges hearing. Judge Motoc outlined further procedural steps, including evidence disclosure and victim participation, ordering the prosecution to begin disclosing the evidence used to issue the warrant of arrest within seven days.
The hearing concluded with Judge Motoc thanking the participants, interpreters, and stenographers.
The stage is now set for a contentious legal battle, with the September 2025 hearing poised to be a pivotal moment in the ICC’s pursuit of justice in the Philippines.
