ICC Judges Find Ex-Philippine President Fit To Stand Trial

Judges at the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague, Netherlands, on Monday, ruled that former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte was fit to participate in pre‑trial proceedings, clearing the way for the next stage of his case.

The decision followed an earlier hearing that was postponed to assess Duterte’s health, after his defence team argued he was unable to take part in proceedings because of his age and medical condition.

Duterte, 80, faces crimes against humanity charges before the ICC for his alleged role in killings during his “war on drugs” when he served first as mayor of Davao City and later as President of the Philippines. Prosecutors alleged he bears responsibility for numerous deaths in operations targeting suspected drug offenders, a campaign that human rights groups said resulted in thousands of fatalities.

The ICC Pre-Trial Chamber I ruled that Duterte was fit to take part in the proceedings, including hearings to confirm the charges against him. The court set a confirmation of charges hearing for February 23, 2026.

Duterte’s legal team had argued that his cognitive and physical condition made it impossible for him to participate effectively in his defence. Independent medical experts appointed by the court assessed his condition and concluded that he was capable of understanding the proceedings and instructing his lawyers.

Duterte’s transfer to The Hague in March 2025 marked him as one of the few former heads of state to face the ICC on allegations of crimes against humanity. His defence maintains that he did not commit the alleged crimes and has described the proceedings as politically motivated, while the prosecution states there are sufficient grounds to proceed.

If convicted, Duterte could face penalties under the Rome Statute, the treaty governing the ICC, although he retains the right to appeal any rulings during pre-trial or trial stages.