MANILA — The International Criminal Court (ICC) has denied former president Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s request for interim release, citing the continuing necessity of his detention based on risks of flight, obstruction of justice, and possible commission of related crimes.

In a 23-page public redacted decision dated October 10, 2025, the ICC Pre-Trial Chamber I — composed of Judges Iulia Antoanella Motoc (presiding), Reine Adélaïde Sophie Alapini-Gansou, and María del Socorro Flores Liera — rejected both the “Urgent Request for Interim Release” and the “Renewed Request for Interim Release” filed by Duterte’s defense.

“The Chamber finds that Mr Duterte’s detention continues to remain necessary under article 60(2) of the Statute based on each of the requirements set by article 58(1) of the Statute,” the decision read.

The Chamber ruled that Duterte’s continued detention is required to ensure his appearance at trial, prevent interference with witnesses and the proceedings, and avoid the commission of crimes within the Court’s jurisdiction. It added that the former president’s position and political connections in the Philippines could enable him to abscond.

The judges cited Duterte’s family’s public remarks challenging the ICC’s legitimacy and noted reports that Vice President Sara Duterte mentioned “breaking Mr Duterte out of the ICC Detention Centre,” which the Chamber said illustrated a rejection of the Court’s authority and risk of obstruction.

Duterte, who was surrendered to the ICC on March 12, 2025, faces charges of crimes against humanity, including multiple murders and attempted murders, in connection with killings during his administration’s war on drugs.

His defense argued that Duterte’s age and alleged cognitive impairment negated any risk that would justify detention, and that humanitarian grounds warranted his release. However, the Chamber said these claims were “purely speculative and without basis.”

“The Defence limits itself to argue that ‘Mr Duterte is 80 years old and medical reports have highlighted [REDACTED],’ without substantiating how detention is so detrimental that it justifies his release,” the judges said, noting that the ICC detention center provides qualified medical care and allows family visits.

“The Chamber, therefore, considers that the Defence’s argument that Mr Duterte should be released for humanitarian reasons must be rejected,” the decision stated.

The Court also dismissed related requests for leave to reply and amici curiae submissions, ordering Duterte’s continued detention pending further proceedings at The Hague.