MANILA — Former president Rodrigo Duterte has asked the International Criminal Court (ICC) Appeals Chamber to allow him not to attend the April 22 reading of its decision on his appeal challenging an earlier ruling on the court’s jurisdiction.

In a three-page document dated April 13, Duterte said he would instead be represented by his legal counsel. The filing was signed by lawyer Nicholas Kaufman.

The Appeals Chamber is scheduled to issue its decision in open court on April 22 at 11:00 a.m. in The Hague, the Netherlands.

The ruling will cover Duterte’s appeal of an earlier decision that dismissed his challenge questioning the ICC’s jurisdiction over the case.

Duterte previously skipped his confirmation of charges hearing in late February, citing several reasons but maintaining his position that he does not recognize the ICC’s authority over him.

The former president is facing charges of crimes against humanity in connection with his administration’s anti-drug campaign.

His legal proceedings began following his arrest in the Philippines and subsequent transfer to ICC custody in March 2025. Since then, Duterte and his legal team have filed multiple motions and pleadings before the court.