Duterte Seeks ICC Interim Release to Third Country Citing Age, No Flight Risk

Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has formally requested the International Criminal Court (ICC) to allow his interim release to a third country, citing humanitarian grounds due to his age and asserting he poses no flight risk. According to documents released Thursday, Duterte’s legal counsel Nicholas Kaufman stated that a third country has given its "advance and principled agreement" to host him, though the name of the country remains redacted.

Duterte, who is now 80 years old, was arrested in March and transferred to The Hague on murder charges related to his controversial “war on drugs.” The crackdown, launched during his presidency from 2016 to 2022, officially resulted in over 6,200 deaths, though human rights groups claim the real toll is far higher. Duterte insists his arrest was unlawful.

In the petition, Duterte’s counsel argued that he no longer holds presidential power or influence, making the likelihood of committing further crimes or fleeing negligible. The request emphasized Duterte’s compliance with release terms and noted that the ICC prosecution would not oppose the interim release if specific conditions—yet undisclosed—are met.

Kristina Conti, assistant to counsel at the ICC representing victims of Duterte’s anti-drug operations, said her clients strongly oppose his release. Despite his international detention, Duterte recently secured a mayoral seat in Davao, underlining his enduring popularity in some regions.

Duterte’s legal team continues to pursue humanitarian relief, portraying his advanced age and declining health as just cause for temporary freedom while awaiting trial.