VP Sara Duterte Awaits Interim Release for Former President
MANILA, Philippines — Vice President Sara Duterte revealed that they are currently waiting for the interim release of her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, citing concerns about his age and health. This development revolves around the ongoing case of crimes against humanity filed against him at the International Criminal Court (ICC).
During a press briefing on Friday, the vice president was asked whether her father could return to the Philippines while detained at the ICC. She responded cautiously, urging patience and emphasizing the need to take things one step at a time.
“How do I answer that? Maybe let’s take it one day at a time. For now, what we are waiting for is that the case will be dismissed based on the filings regarding jurisdiction, and in the meantime, he will also be given interim release while the lawyers and prosecutors argue in court,” Sara explained. “He should be granted interim release due to his age and health,” she added.
Uncertain Timeline for Return to Davao City
The vice president admitted she does not have details on a specific timeline or the likelihood that her father could return to their hometown, Davao City. She also noted that she has asked Duterte’s lawyer, Atty. Kaufman, to make himself available to the Philippine media to address questions from supporters and the public.
“I have also told Atty. Kaufman that if possible, to make himself available to the Philippine media to answer the questions from our countrymen and supporters of former President Rodrigo Duterte,” she said.
Legal Proceedings and Latest Developments at ICC
The defense team recently requested the ICC Pre-Trial Chamber I to postpone ruling on the petition for Duterte’s interim release. Their filing on July 18 asked to suspend the decision “until such time as the defense has assembled all information necessary.” This move delays any immediate resolution.
Former President Duterte was arrested last March at Ninoy Aquino International Airport and transferred to the ICC headquarters in The Hague, Netherlands. He faces allegations of crimes against humanity linked to his administration’s controversial war on drugs.
The pre-trial hearing for confirmation of charges is tentatively scheduled for September 23, 2025. Official government figures report that the drug war claimed at least 6,000 lives. However, human rights groups and ICC prosecutors estimate the number to be between 12,000 and 30,000 from 2016 to 2019, highlighting numerous instances of alleged extrajudicial killings.
For more news and updates on interim release of Rodrigo Duterte, visit Filipinokami.com.
