The International Criminal Court (ICC) has scheduled the confirmation of charges hearing against former president Rodrigo Duterte on Feb. 23 after judges ruled that he is fit to participate in pre-trial proceedings.
In a 25-page decision, the ICC Pre-Trial Chamber I unanimously denied the defense’s request to indefinitely adjourn the case, citing reliable findings from an independent panel of medical experts.
The judges said the medical reports showed Duterte can understand the charges against him and effectively exercise his procedural rights, despite claims of cognitive impairment.
They also rejected the defense’s argument that the experts’ findings were contradictory, saying the panel’s holistic assessment was persuasive and clear.
The hearing, originally set for Sept. 23 last year, was postponed following the defense’s request for adjournment, but will now proceed with certain measures in place to assist Duterte as advised by medical experts.
Source: PhilNews24 | January 27, 2026
