Even in their grief, families of drug war victims are holding on to one hope: that former President Rodrigo Duterte lives long enough to face trial at the International Criminal Court (ICC).
Kristina Conti, assistant to counsel at the ICC, confirmed this sentiment during an interview on ONE News’ Morning Matters on July 7. “Well we’re concerned as well because we would want him alive for the trial,” she said, reflecting the victims’ quiet determination for accountability.
Duterte has been in ICC custody for nearly three months, awaiting a confirmation of charges hearing scheduled for September 23. The proceedings will determine whether the international tribunal will move forward with a trial over his controversial war on drugs, which has left thousands of Filipinos dead.
His ex-wife, Elizabeth Zimmerman, recently described Duterte as “skin and bones,” adding that he struggles with walking and has reportedly lost weight while in detention. “He is okay, but he is so thin… At least he said he is no longer taking any meds,” Zimmerman said in a Facebook video dated July 4. While she claimed he was “healthy” overall, she noted that his appetite has waned due to dislike for the food served at the ICC.
Conti, however, challenged this narrative, saying Duterte could easily ask for rice or even cook his own meals in detention. “Kaya hindi ko alam kung bakit pumapayat or anong kailangang gawin but we wish him all the best,” she said, noting that detainees have access to culturally appropriate food and even groceries within the facility.
Despite Zimmerman’s image of Duterte as frail and aging, lawyers representing victims remain unconvinced. In a formal opposition to Duterte’s request for temporary release, ICC victims’ counsel Paolina Massidda argued that his continued influence poses a threat to both victims and the judicial process. The ICC’s prosecution also disputed claims that it had agreed to the release, clarifying that any agreement was contingent on cooperation with a specific country.
For the families who lost loved ones without answers or justice, Duterte’s physical condition is secondary. What matters most is that he stands trial — alive — for the suffering his administration has caused. The Pre-Trial Chamber has yet to decide on his interim release.
