FORMER Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte will remain in detention at the International Criminal Court (ICC) after Trial Chamber III ruled that he poses an increased risk of absconding and interfering with upcoming proceedings.
In a decision issued on September 16, 2026, the three-judge panel—comprising Presiding Judge Joanna Korner, Judge Keebong Paek, and Judge Nicolas Guillou—concluded that detention must continue as the case moves forward.
Heightened Risks Cited
According to the Chamber, the risk of Duterte fleeing or tampering with the process has grown following the scheduling of his trial for November 30, 2026, the submission of medical reports, and the prosecution’s disclosure of witness statements and evidence.
The court noted that disclosing witness identities and expected testimonies increases the potential for interference, either directly or through supporters and family members in the Philippines.
Health and Fitness to Stand Trial
Regarding his physical condition, the Chamber clarified that it has not yet made a final ruling on whether Duterte is medically fit to stand trial. However, the judges found that the current medical experts’ reports do not provide grounds to alter his custody status.
The defense did not formally move for his release during this review, reserving instead the right to request another detention assessment once the court rules on his fitness to stand trial.
For now, the former president remains detained at The Hague as he faces charges tied to crimes against humanity over his administration’s anti-drug campaign.
