ICC judges rule ex-Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte is fit to stand trial

Judges at the International Criminal Court (ICC) have ruled that former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte is fit to stand trial, rejecting defense arguments that the 80-year-old is in poor health and unable to participate effectively in proceedings. The decision follows an assessment by independent medical experts and keeps the long-running case moving toward its next major milestone.

Duterte faces allegations of crimes against humanity connected to killings during his anti-drug campaign, including actions tied to his time as mayor of Davao and later as president from 2016 to 2022. Prosecutors argue the violence was not a series of isolated incidents but part of a broader policy environment that enabled lethal operations and impunity.

In its ruling, the court emphasized that fitness for trial does not require a defendant to be operating at peak performance; rather, judges must be satisfied the person has sufficient understanding to exercise procedural rights. The chamber said the expert assessment supported the conclusion that Duterte can participate meaningfully, allowing the case to proceed.

The next step is a confirmation-of-charges hearing scheduled to begin on February 23, 2026, when judges will determine whether the evidence presented by prosecutors is strong enough to move to a full trial. Duterte’s legal team indicated it was disappointed and intends to pursue further legal options, including seeking to appeal.

The case remains politically sensitive in the Philippines, where estimates of the death toll vary sharply: police have cited thousands, while human rights groups estimate far higher numbers. For victims’ families and international rights advocates, the ruling is seen as a significant procedural win, while Duterte supporters argue the ICC lacks legitimacy and that the drug crackdown was necessary for public safety.