Duterte appears in court over drug war murder charges

Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte appeared via video link at the International Criminal Court in The Hague, facing murder allegations related to his "war on drugs." This marks his first appearance in connection with charges of crimes against humanity. Duterte, who appeared frail and tired, was informed of the charges against him but did not enter a plea. His lawyer claimed that Duterte was "abducted" during his arrest and described the process as a "gross abuse of process." The court found him mentally fit to participate. The case will return to the ICC in September to determine if there is enough evidence for a trial, which could start in early 2026. If convicted, Duterte faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.