ICC denies Duterte's request to postpone court appearance

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has denied former President Rodrigo Duterte's request to postpone his first court appearance. Duterte's legal team argued for more time to prepare, but the presiding judge stated the hearing does not require extensive preparation. The ICC confirmed that the initial appearance is not a trial or a confirmation of charges. The purpose is to inform Duterte of the accusations against him and his rights. A confirmation of charges hearing is scheduled for September 23, 2025. Duterte faces an arrest warrant for alleged crimes against humanity related to his administration's war on drugs, which reportedly resulted in thousands of deaths. The ICC retains jurisdiction over these allegations as they occurred while the Philippines was still a member of the Rome Statute.