ICC Delays Interim Release Ruling on Former Philippine President Duterte

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has delayed its decision on former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte's request for interim release pending further actions by his defense team. Duterte's lawyers have cited delays in accessing essential information and have indicated their intent to raise new issues that could bar the scheduled September 23 confirmation of charges hearing, which determines if the case proceeds to trial. While the defense denies seeking to postpone the hearing, they have requested a status conference to clarify procedural matters amid ongoing disputes over evidence disclosure. The ICC prosecutor has urged the court to reject the defense's appeal to delay ruling on Duterte's interim release, emphasizing that the defense filed their application prematurely despite incomplete submissions. Duterte remains detained at the ICC in The Hague, facing crimes against humanity charges related to his administration's war on drugs, with his family advocating for better care due to his advanced age. Victims' representatives and public observers express concern over delays and lack of transparency in the proceedings.