Ex-President Duterte's first ICC appearance set for March 14

Metro Manila, Philippines – Former President Rodrigo Duterte is scheduled to make his first appearance before the International Criminal Court (ICC) on Friday, March 14, 2025, at 2 PM (local time / 9 PM Manila time) in The Hague, Netherlands.

"During the initial appearance hearing, the judges will verify the identity of the suspect and the language in which he can follow the proceedings," the ICC said in a statement.

Duterte will also be informed of the charges against him and of his rights under the ICC Rome Statute.

The Pre-Trial Chamber I is composed of Judge Iulia Antoanella Motoc as the presiding judge and Judges Reine Adélaïde Sophie Alapini-Gansou and María del Socorro Flores Liera.

Members of the diplomatic corps, civil society, and other members of the public are allowed to attend the hearing. The hearing can be monitored online on the ICC website with a 30-minute delay.

Embassy: Duterte remains in good health

The Philippine Embassy in the Netherlands has reported that Duterte is in good health after a recent check-up.

He also requested consular and family visits following a conversation with a consular officer.

"During the call, the former President conveyed, among other things, that he underwent a medical check-up, received medical care, and is generally fine," the Embassy said.

The Embassy has made a formal request to the ICC Registry to facilitate the consular visit as soon as possible.

Duterte is suspected of committing murder, qualified as a crime against humanity, allegedly between November 1, 2011 and March 16, 2019, in the Philippines with his administration’s bloody war on illegal drugs.