The International Criminal Court (ICC) Prosecutor’s Office asked Pre-Trial Chamber I to deny former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s request for interim release, citing him as a flight risk and a threat to the judicial process.
Prosecutors argued that Duterte’s continued detention is necessary to ensure his appearance at trial, prevent obstruction of justice, and halt ongoing alleged crimes.
Citing his refusal to recognize the ICC’s jurisdiction, threats against court personnel, and past inflammatory statements—including a preference to die rather than appear in court—they questioned his willingness to cooperate.
The prosecution also noted Duterte’s resistance to arrest, which he described as “kidnapping,” and social media claims from his family that he had been abducted.
Reports also surfaced that his partner, Honeylet Avanceña, allegedly assaulted a police officer during the arrest, though no charges were filed.
Duterte’s political influence remains strong, with his reelection as Davao City mayor and his children holding government positions. Prosecutors warned that this network could be used to intimidate witnesses or obstruct the trial.
The prosecution dismissed Duterte’s poor health as insufficient grounds for release, and rejected a defense proposal to hold him in a third country, citing a lack of agreement and enforcement guarantees.
Duterte is accused of crimes against humanity for alleged extrajudicial killings during his anti-drug campaign. The hearing to confirm charges is set for Sept 23.
