The International Criminal Court’s Appeals Chamber has definitively rejected former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s petition for interim release, compelling his continued detention in The Hague. This decisive ruling, delivered on November 28, 2025, marks a significant legal setback for Duterte, who faces charges of crimes against humanity linked to his administration’s controversial anti-drug campaign.
In a formal statement, the Duterte family expressed acceptance of the judicial outcome ‘with peaceful hearts,’ signaling a subdued response to the unfavorable decision. The family affirmed their commitment to maintaining close collaboration with Duterte’s legal defense team and sustaining regular communication with the former leader throughout the ongoing judicial proceedings. They extended gratitude to supporters who had offered prayers during this critical phase.
Presiding Judge Luz del Carmen Ibañez Carranza articulated the court’s position, emphasizing that the Pre-Trial Chamber’s initial assessment had been conducted with rigorous scrutiny of all available evidence. The Appeals Chamber unanimously dismissed all three legal arguments advanced by Duterte’s defense counsel, thereby validating the earlier determination that his release would pose substantial risks under Article 58(1)(b) of the Rome Statute.
Duterte’s arrest transpired on March 11, 2025, when Philippine authorities executed an ICC-issued warrant. His transfer to Dutch custody followed shortly thereafter, where he remains confined pending trial for alleged systematic extrajudicial killings during his presidential term from 2016 to 2022.
The judicial outcome has elicited strong reactions from political allies, including Senator Robin Padilla, who openly expressed profound disappointment. Padilla recounted watching the proceedings with anticipation, only to recognize the inevitable ruling as the judge detailed the legal merits. His statements reflect the emotional toll the case has exacted on Duterte’s supporters within Philippine political circles.