The principal counsel representing victims at the International Criminal Court (ICC) has strongly opposed former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s request for interim release, warning that his freedom could endanger victims and undermine the integrity of the proceedings.
In a detailed 18-page submission, Principal Counsel Paolina Massida argued that Duterte’s continued detention is essential to ensure he stands trial for alleged crimes against humanity linked to his bloody war on drugs.
“Considering that Mr. Duterte has been recently arrested, his interim release would be hard to fathom for the victims who have clearly expressed the view that he should remain in detention at the Court pending the pre-trial proceedings,” the counsel for the victims said.
“For the victims, this is the only way of ensuring that he will face trial. Indeed, victims are extremely concerned with the prospect that Mr. Duterte could be released, particularly because there is a real risk that they face threats from the Suspect and his supporters,” she added.
The plea comes in response to a petition filed by Duterte’s defense lawyer, Nicholas Kaufman, who claimed that an unnamed country had agreed to host the former president under specific conditions.
The defense also cited the ICC prosecution’s supposed non-opposition to the release
The ICC prosecution, in its response to Duterte’s request, maintained that keeping him in detention is vital to secure his presence at trial, especially given his refusal to recognize the court’s authority.
The prosecution emphasized Duterte’s history of defying the court’s authority, including his public denouncements of the ICC and a Supreme Court petition challenging Philippine cooperation with the tribunal. Prosecutors also noted that Duterte’s legal team and family have described his arrest as a “kidnapping,” raising concerns about his willingness to return voluntarily if released.
Massida underscored Duterte’s enduring political clout, pointing to his daughter Sara’s role as vice president and his sons’ reelection to key posts in Davao City. “He is still very popular in the Philippines and commands widespread respect and obedience,” she said, warning that even a conditional release could jeopardize the trial.
The ICC has yet to rule on the request, but the victims’ counsel made clear: releasing Duterte, even temporarily, would send a chilling message to those seeking justice. (ZIA LUNA)
