Mr. Rodrigo Duterte’s Initial Appearance at the ICC?

Did you watch Mr. Rodrigo Duterte’s Initial Appearance at the ICC?

Did you notice how the ICC handled the proceedings?

- Cold and clinical, not chaotic and corrupt

- Process-driven, not emotion-driven.

- Unshakable legal structure, no shortcuts, no "padrino."

Duterte is now trapped in a system that does not bend to power. He is up against a machine that follows only one thing: THE LAW. And in The Hague, you can’t kill, silence or outmaneuver the law.

The same man who once boasted about silencing critics now faces a court where his excuses, influence and manipulations are meaningless.

These excerpts highlight the procedural nature of the initial appearance, focusing on identity confirmation, presentation of charges, addressing immediate concerns and setting the stage for forthcoming legal proceedings:

1. Confirmation of Identity: Duterte appeared via video link, where he was asked to confirm his identity. He introduced himself, stating his full name, place and date of birth and acknowledging his presence at the hearing.

2. Presentation of Charges: Presiding Judge Iulia Antoanella Motoc informed Duterte of the charges against him, which include crimes against humanity and murder related to his anti-drug campaign. The judge outlined the allegations, emphasizing the gravity of the accusations.

3. Health Concerns Addressed: Duterte's legal team raised concerns about his health, suggesting he was too frail to participate fully. The judge informed that the court-appointed doctor assessed Duterte and confirmed he was mentally and physically fit to proceed, allowing the hearing to continue as scheduled.

4. Legal Representation's Manifestation: Salvador Medialdea, Duterte's lawyer, claimed that the former president had been "abducted" and criticized the arrest as a political move. Judge Motoc acknowledged the statement but reiterated that such matters should be addressed in pre-trial proceedings, keeping the initial appearance focused on procedural aspects.

5. Scheduling of Confirmation of Charges Hearing: Presiding Judge Iulia Motoc scheduled the confirmation of charges hearing, a pre-trial proceeding, for September 23, 2025. This hearing will assess the evidence and determine whether substantial grounds exist to proceed to a full trial. The date was set to ensure both the Prosecution and Defense have adequate time to prepare their cases.

Duterte’s camp came unprepared, thinking they could derail the process. The ICC? No patience for drama, just a strict, surgical takedown of every excuse. 

For Filipinos tired of seeing the corrupt and powerful escape justice, watching the ICC handle this case is beyond satisfying, a masterclass in legal precision. It’s a reminder of what real justice looks like, cold, methodical and unstoppable. 

Source :

https://www.youtube.com/live/BzdhIS9wNWw?si=kjhqTjLxCgFKJf2e.