PhilStarGlobal-Jan 26
Former president Rodrigo Duterte’s confirmation of charges before the International Criminal Court (ICC) is scheduled for February 23, the tribunal announced Monday. In a statement on January 26, Pre-Trial Chamber I judges declared Duterte fit to stand trial, meaning he will participate in pre-trial proceedings, including the confirmation of charges. The judges based their decision on the medical assessment of a three-member expert panel, which found the 80-year-old Duterte capable of personally taking part in his trial — a conclusion the independent experts reached unanimously. In 2025, Duterte’s lawyers asked for an indefinite adjournment, asserting the former president was unfit to stand trial due to memory, reasoning issues and poor health. Their request for interim release was also denied by the Pre-Trial Chamber I, which the Appeals Chamber later upheld. Since Duterte will be attending the pre-trial proceedings, the medical panel recommended the use of hearing assistance devices, regular breaks during court sessions, and limiting sessions to 1.5 hours each. The confirmation of charges hearing will determine whether sufficient evidence exists to establish substantial grounds to believe Duterte committed the crimes charged. Prosecutors cited at least 76 killings, ranging from Davao Death Squad cases to high-value drug targets and barangay clearance operations. Read more at: https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2026/01/26/2503661/dutertes-icc-confirmation-charges-hearing-set-feb-23
