Former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque commented on former President Rodrigo Duterte’s appearance before the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague, drawing attention to how Duterte presented himself during the proceedings.
“Walang wheel chair. Walang oxygen at heart beat monitor. Walang drama,” Roque wrote in a Facebook post.
Duterte appeared in person before ICC Trial Chamber III on September 16 for a status conference concerning the case against him over alleged crimes against humanity linked to killings during his time as Davao City mayor and president.
His appearance marked the first time he attended an ICC status conference in person. He had previously waived his attendance at two earlier conferences and last appeared before the court through a video link in March 2025.
The former president has been detained at the ICC Detention Centre in Scheveningen since he was transferred to The Hague following his arrest in Manila in March 2025.
During the September 16 proceedings, the court also addressed preparations for Duterte’s trial, including matters involving prosecution witnesses, evidence disclosure and allegations concerning additional incidents. The trial is scheduled to begin on November 30.
Duterte’s defense has also raised issues concerning assessments of his physical and cognitive condition. His lawyers have challenged findings by court-appointed medical experts, while prosecutors have sought a determination that he is fit to stand trial.
The former president faces three counts of crimes against humanity over alleged killings connected to his anti-drug campaign and other operations. Duterte has denied the allegations and has maintained that deaths during police operations were the result of self-defense.
