Duterte fit for trial at ICC, denies abduction claims

Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte appeared via video link at the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague, facing charges of crimes against humanity related to his "war on drugs." His lawyer claimed Duterte was "abducted" and too ill for trial, but the court found him fit. The ICC dismissed health concerns after a court-appointed doctor assessed Duterte as mentally aware. A pretrial hearing is scheduled for September 23 to evaluate the prosecution's evidence. If the trial proceeds, it could last for years. Duterte's arrest has intensified political tensions in the Philippines, particularly between the Duterte and Marcos families. His supporters rallied outside the ICC, while Vice President Sara Duterte criticized the arrest as a breach of sovereignty.