Malacañang expressed hope on Friday that former President Rodrigo Duterte remains in good physical and mental health to face charges before the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague, following a court ruling declaring him fit to stand trial.
Speaking at a press briefing in Singapore during President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s working visit, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro stated that maintaining good health is essential for Duterte to present his defense.
“Mas maging malakas siya, mas maging malalim ang kanyang pag-iisip para maharap niya ang mga akusasyon na ibinabato sa kanya,” Castro said. “Dahil sa kanyang magiging malusog na pangangatawan, malusog na pag-iisip, doon lamang niya maaaring isiwalat ang katotohanan.’
The statement follows a September 28 decision by ICC Trial Chamber III, made public on October 8, which ruled that the 81-year-old former chief executive is fit to participate in court proceedings.
Citing findings from an independent medical expert panel, the court noted “no evidence of worsening mental state or cognitive abilities’ and observed that Duterte’s overall physical health had optimized while in custody due to structured medical care.
Duterte was transferred to ICC custody in March 2025 following his arrest in Manila over alleged crimes against humanity linked to his administration’s anti-drug campaign. His formal trial is scheduled to open on November 30, 2026.