Fri Jun 13 11:43:56 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, currently detained at The Hague on murder charges related to his “war on drugs,” has petitioned the International Criminal Court (ICC) for interim release to a third, unnamed country. His lawyer argues he is not a flight risk due to his age, lack of current presidential power, and a third country’s agreement to receive him. Duterte cites humanitarian reasons for his request. The ICC prosecutor will respond, and victims’ representatives oppose his release. Even in detention, Duterte was recently elected mayor of Davao.

**News Article:**

**Duterte Seeks Release to Third Country Amidst ICC Trial**

*Manila, June 13, 2025* – Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, currently facing murder charges at the International Criminal Court (ICC) for his role in the nation’s controversial “war on drugs,” has formally requested interim release to an unnamed third country.

Duterte, 80, was arrested in March in connection with the deaths of thousands of alleged drug peddlers and users during his six-year tenure. His legal team filed the request yesterday, arguing that Duterte’s advanced age and the fact that he no longer holds presidential power mitigate any flight risk. The petition stated that a third country has given prior agreement to receive Mr. Duterte onto its territory. The name of the country was redacted in the document released to the public.

Duterte’s lawyer, Nicholas Kaufman, assured the ICC that his client “is not a flight risk and will not commit crimes if released.” The prosecution has indicated it will respond to the request, though an email stated the prosecution would not oppose Duterte’s interim release as long as certain undisclosed terms are met.

Kristina Conti, representing victims of the drug war, expressed strong opposition to Duterte’s release. Despite his detention, Duterte was overwhelmingly elected mayor of Davao in the recent midterm elections, demonstrating continued support within his home city. The case continues to draw international attention.

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