By Alexia Bangayan

On Friday, November 28, the International Criminal Court (ICC) Appeals Chamber unanimously rejected three arguments by former president Rodrigo Duterte’s lawyers, ruling that he must remain detained in The Hague to ensure his appearance at trial and prevent interference with witnesses.

Judge Luz del Carmen Ibáñez Carranza confirmed that the Pre-Trial Chamber I’s September ruling was correctly assessed, making Duterte’s detention necessary due to serious accusations and the possibility of disruptions if released, even under restrictions.

The ruling emphasized that Duterte’s legal team failed to demonstrate any legal or factual error in the lower court’s findings regarding his financial capacity and extensive political network, which could allow him to evade trial.

Duterte’s lawyers had previously argued for interim release on humanitarian grounds, citing his age and alleged health concerns, but the Chamber concluded that these were insufficient and did not outweigh the security and procedural risks identified by the Pre-Trial Chamber.

The court noted that detention conditions allow for proper medical care, and the defense did not provide evidence to the contrary.

Duterte waived his right to be present during the reading of the Appeals Chamber decision, leaving his lawyers to represent him at the hearing.

With the appeal denied, Duterte will remain in ICC custody as the case progresses toward trial, keeping the restrictions the court considers necessary for the integrity of the proceedings.