ICC Upholds Duterte's Detention Amid Drug War Crimes

The International Criminal Court has ruled that former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte must remain in detention. Duterte faces charges over a violent drug war campaign during his presidency. Despite an appeal citing his age and health, the court decided he remains a flight risk.

The International Criminal Court has ruled that former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, aged 80, will remain in detention despite an appeal for his release on health and age grounds. Duterte is currently facing charges over his war on drugs, which resulted in thousands of deaths during his term from 2016 to 2022. Despite arguments from his defense team, the appeals judges concluded that the risk factors necessitated his continued detainment.

Judge Luz del Carmen Ibanez Carranza outlined that the defense was unable to demonstrate any errors in the previous ruling demanding Duterte's detention. The former president was not present in court as the decision was delivered.

Members of the victims' families, who followed the hearing from Manila, expressed relief and satisfaction with the verdict, reiterating the need for the trial to proceed. Notably, Duterte's family has stated they accept the court's decision, while his legal team continues to pursue motions for dismissal.

(With inputs from agencies.)