As the International Criminal Court (ICC) moves closer to its confirmation of charges hearing on September 23, former president Rodrigo Duterte has made it clear through his daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte, that he will face the process head-on and will not run from justice.
Speaking during her recent visit to The Hague, Sara said her father expressed only one wish if he is granted interim release: to return to his hometown. “It is clear. He told me that repeatedly,” she shared, recalling their conversation.
Under the Rome Statute, detainees may request interim release, provided they meet strict conditions, including assurances against obstructing justice or intimidating witnesses. Sara argued that her father has long shown restraint despite being the subject of fierce criticism. She cited former senator Antonio Trillanes, who has publicly identified witnesses against Duterte. “That is very clear. (Former) president Duterte has been attacked by Trillanes for a long time. Trillanes has also been naming his witnesses. But, has anything happened to them? Nothing. Nothing ever happened to them,” she stressed.
Meanwhile, Duterte’s legal team is preparing to file another motion before the ICC, though Sara declined to reveal details, saying it has yet to be formally submitted.
The former president remains in ICC custody as the tribunal evaluates charges linked to his controversial war on drugs.
