Duterte won’t appear when ICC hands down ruling on interim release plea

National

FORMER President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has waived his right to appear — either in person or virtually — when the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) Appeals Chamber hands down its ruling on his appeal for interim release.

In a filing submitted on Nov. 27, Duterte’s lead counsel Nicholas Kaufman informed the court that the former Philippine president signed a waiver indicating he will not be present when the ruling is read.

“I, Rodrigo Roa Duterte, respectfully waive my right to appear … on 28 November 2025 at 10:30,” the waiver read.

The court’s ruling — which addresses the defense’s appeal following the denial of Duterte’s request for interim release — is scheduled to be delivered on Nov. 28 at 10:30 a.m. local time in The Hague (5:30 p.m. Manila time).

Duterte’s legal team had filed the interim release appeal on the basis of what they described as “humanitarian considerations,” pointing to his advanced age and declining physical and mental health.

However, the ICC Pre‑Trial Chamber I denied the request, citing concerns over risk of flight, the possibility of interference with witnesses or ongoing proceedings, and the defendant’s political influence — among other factors.

Should the court grant interim release, it is expected that strict conditions would be applied: limited movement, restricted communications, and continued oversight — similar to detention protocols.(Victoria Diana, USJ-R Comm Intern)