Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has appeared in person before the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague for the first time since his transfer to the court, as he faces crimes against humanity charges arising from his administration’s anti-drug campaign.
The 81-year-old attended Wednesday’s hearing, where judges considered issues surrounding his health, the disclosure of evidence and preparations for his trial, which is scheduled to begin on November 30. Duterte did not address the court during the proceedings.
Duterte was arrested in the Philippines and surrendered to the ICC in March 2025 after judges issued a warrant accusing him of responsibility for murders allegedly committed between 2011 and 2019. The allegations cover his years as mayor of Davao City as well as his presidency from 2016 to 2022.
ICC prosecutors allege that Duterte was responsible for a widespread and systematic campaign targeting people suspected of involvement in illegal drugs. The court’s arrest warrant alleges that thousands of people were killed during the period under investigation.
Duterte has denied wrongdoing. His position has been that he directed police to act in self-defence as part of efforts to combat illegal drugs.
His defence team has raised concerns about his ability to participate in the proceedings, citing what it describes as significant memory problems and cognitive decline. Lawyers have argued that his condition affects his ability to retain new information and recall past events.
ICC judges had previously determined that Duterte was able to participate in the proceedings and directed that he attend hearings in person rather than follow them through a video connection. His first appearance before the ICC in March 2025 was conducted by video.
The prosecution has alleged that Duterte’s campaign resulted in thousands of deaths. Philippine police have separately reported that about 6,200 suspects were killed during anti-drug operations, while ICC prosecutors have cited estimates of up to 30,000 deaths.
At Wednesday’s hearing, Presiding Judge Joanna Korner urged the parties to keep the proceedings focused on the most relevant evidence and witnesses as the court prepares for the November trial.
Relatives of people killed during the anti-drug campaign welcomed Duterte’s appearance, with some saying they hoped the proceedings would provide an opportunity for victims’ families to seek justice.
Duterte’s case is being heard by Trial Chamber III of the ICC after the court confirmed the charges and committed the case for trial.
