Vice President Sara Duterte acknowledged the presence of Filipino supporters in The Hague on Monday, expressing gratitude for their show of solidarity with her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, as developments unfolded in his case before the International Criminal Court (ICC).
Her remarks came after Pre-Trial Chamber I of the ICC ruled that the former Philippine leader is medically fit to take part in pre-trial proceedings related to alleged crimes against humanity. The decision rejected earlier claims raised by Duterte’s legal team that he should be excused from proceedings due to supposed cognitive impairment.
Speaking briefly to supporters, the Vice President said she had not discussed the court’s ruling with her father, explaining that she is not permitted to talk to him about the status of the case. She noted that their most recent conversation instead centered on ongoing maritime issues affecting the Philippines, which she said prompted a broader reflection on life’s uncertainties.
Before leaving, Duterte addressed the Filipinos gathered outside the detention facility, thanking them for traveling to show support despite what she described as unfavorable news.
“Maraming salamat sa inyo, mga kababayan namin, sa inyong pagpapakita ng suporta kay dating Pangulong Rodrigo Duterte dito sa detention unit ng ICC,” she said.
“Lalong-lalo na ngayong araw na ito dahil hindi maganda ‘yung balita sa kanyang kaso at nandito kayo para magbigay ng moral support sa kanya. At sigurado ako na maikuwento ‘yun ng abogado niya na pumasok ngayon doon, si Atty. Kaufman,” she added.
According to the ICC, the confirmation of charges hearing in the case has been scheduled for February 23.
