ICC orders Rody Duterte to remain detained as trial nears

September 16, 2026

By ABOGADO.COM.PH Staff

The International Criminal Court (ICC) Trial Chamber III has ordered former President Rodrigo Duterte to remain detained, saying the risks of his fleeing or interfering with the proceedings have increased as his Nov. 30 trial draws closer.

In its Second Decision on the Review of Detention, the chamber said the prospect of Duterte facing trial, and a lengthy prison sentence if convicted, had increased, which raised the likelihood that he could abscond or obstruct or endanger the proceedings.

The chamber also cited the prosecution’s disclosure of its witness and evidence lists, saying the disclosure of the identities of witnesses and the substance of their expected testimony could increase Duterte’s ability to interfere with witnesses, directly or through his family or supporters in the Philippines.

Also, the chamber said the medical experts’ reports on Duterte’s fitness to stand trial contained no information warranting a change in his detention.

It also found that the defense had presented no new facts or changed circumstances justifying his release.#