Victims warn of danger if Duterte wins ICC release

National

FEARING retaliation from his supporters, the alleged victims in the International Criminal Court (ICC) proceedings against former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte are urging judges to keep him in detention, warning that granting him temporary release could put their safety at risk and undermine the trial.

In a redacted public filing submitted by the Office of Public Counsel for Victims (OPCV), participants in the case opposed Duterte’s renewed request for interim release.

The filing stressed that allowing him to walk free, even under conditions, could expose them to reprisals from his supporters in the Philippines.

“Victims also oppose the Renewed Request on the basis that their security and well-being will be put in danger,” the filing read, as quoted by Manila Bulletin.

The victims expressed strong concerns that any interim release, even with restrictions, could put them in harm’s way. They also noted that Duterte continues to wield considerable influence and has access to key evidence, including the identities of prosecution witnesses—factors that increase the risk of intimidation and obstruction and underscore the need for his continued detention.

Duterte is scheduled for a confirmation of charges hearing on September 23, six months after being taken into ICC custody in The Hague on March 12.

In a separate filing, Duterte’s legal team said it has prepared a list of evidence for the upcoming hearing but noted that a still-redacted issue must be resolved before proceedings can continue.

The defense also raised ethical concerns about ICC Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan, citing his previous work representing Filipino victims in an earlier ICC communication. They questioned whether Khan had fully withdrawn from his former clients and disclosed the matter when applying for the prosecutor position, and requested to be notified if any current victim applicants are linked to those previously represented by Khan.(MyTVCebu)