Defense: Medical records show Duterte unfit for trial; victims’ counsel, prosecution reject release bid

“Indeed, even in an absence of clarity or consensus on aetiology or severity, both medical professionals agree on the existence of the impairment itself, with the 23 June 2025 neuropsychology report corroborating and supporting the findings of [REDACTED]’s report of 29 May 2025,” he stressed.

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Duterte’s medical condition, the lawyer said, warrants the litigation of the matter before a confirmation of charges hearing is held.

The ICC’s pretrial chamber has suspended the Sept. 23 scheduled confirmation of charges hearing after the defense argued that Duterte is unfit to stand trial and that he is having difficulties recalling events, dates, and even members of his own family.

This despite claims from Duterte’s own children and ex-wife that the former president is doing okay, and that he has been discussing politics and the country’s current corruption woes with them.

Vice President Sara Duterte had earlier lamented incidents when her father lost consciousness, hitting the ICC for being unable to care for the Duterte patriarch’s well-being.

Victims’ counsel, prosecution reject release bid

The Office of Public Counsel for Victims (OPCV) and the Office of the Prosecutor filed separate objections on the interim release application of former president Duterte, urging the ICC’s pretrial chamber to reject the defense’s latest notification.