MANILA—The International Criminal Court (ICC) has appointed three medical specialists to evaluate whether former president Rodrigo Duterte is fit to stand trial, following his defense team’s claim that he is suffering from cognitive decline.

In a ruling cited by a media report, the ICC Pre-Trial Chamber I designated experts in forensic psychiatry, neuropsychology, and geriatric and behavioral neurology to conduct the medical evaluation.

The panel was directed to determine if Duterte has any medical condition that could affect his ability to follow or participate in the ongoing pre-trial proceedings, including the confirmation of charges hearings. It was also instructed to recommend any special measures that may be necessary to accommodate his condition.

The assessment will focus on Duterte’s capacity to meaningfully exercise his fair trial rights, including his ability to understand the charges, evidence, and the overall conduct of the proceedings.

“The Chamber instructs the Panel to only utilize the information it receives for the purpose of formulating its reports, and orders it not to divulge any information without prior approval of the Chamber,” the ICC ruling stated.

To preserve impartiality, the judges also prohibited the defense, prosecution, and victims’ counsel from having any contact with the appointed experts.

The panel has until October 31 to submit its report, while all parties have until November 5 to file their observations.

Duterte’s legal team earlier sought to postpone the proceedings, citing his alleged cognitive decline. Both the prosecution and the victims’ counsel opposed the request, leading the ICC Pre-Trial Chamber to defer the confirmation of charges hearing originally set for September 23 pending the medical evaluation’s outcome.

Meanwhile, Vice President Sara Duterte said she prayed for her father’s health and temporary release during her visit to the Basilica Minore of Our Lady of Manaoag in Pangasinan on Friday, coinciding with the 90th anniversary celebration of the Office of the Vice President.

“I just prayed for good health for former president Rodrigo Duterte to overcome his case at the detention unit at the International Criminal Court, and I also prayed that he would be given an interim release or at least total freedom from the case,” she told reporters.

The Vice President said her visit to Manaoag was part of the OVP’s activities marking its milestone year.