THE HAGUE, Netherlands — The International Criminal Court (ICC) on Wednesday dismissed speculation that former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte had been released from its custody, confirming that he remains detained at its facility in The Hague.
“There is no change in the status of Mr. Duterte. He is still in the ICC detention centre,” ICC spokesperson Dr. Fadi El-Abdallah said, addressing the growing rumors about Duterte’s alleged release.
The clarification comes amid public speculation and the conspicuous silence of Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio, who declined to confirm or deny the former president’s detention status during a recent media encounter.
“I know the answer, but I will not comment as I am not sure if it’s allowed on my level,” she said. “The best is to ask his lawyer, Atty. Nicholas Kaufman.”
Duterte is facing charges of crimes against humanity over thousands of alleged extrajudicial killings under his administration’s bloody war on drugs.
The ICC has scheduled a confirmation of charges hearing for September 23, 2025.
His legal team had earlier sought interim release but subsequently asked the court to defer ruling on the request pending the submission of additional defense materials.
The ICC granted the deferral but has yet to make a final decision on the matter./PN
