THE HAGUE – International Criminal Court judges have determined that former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte is mentally fit to stand trial for crimes against humanity allegations stemming from his government’s deadly war on drugs, the court said Thursday.
Duterte, 81, has denied the accusations. His trial is set to begin Nov. 30, when he is expected to enter a plea. Prosecutors accuse the former leader of murder and attempted murder tied to his alleged role in dozens of killings during the anti-drug campaign.
The judges’ Sept. 28 finding followed an assessment by an independent panel of experts. The panel concluded that Duterte “has the capacity to understand the charges” and can follow the proceedings, including the consequences of entering a plea, according to an ICC statement.
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The experts also said Duterte is capable of understanding the evidence against him and consulting with his legal team about his defense.
Philippine authorities arrested Duterte in March 2025 before transferring him to the ICC’s headquarters in The Hague.
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