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Duterte Turned Over To ICC In The Netherlands: What Happens Next?
Screengrab from Andy Peñafuerte III
In a major development, former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has officially been handed over to the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Netherlands. Duterte landed at Rotterdam Airport on Wednesday (March 12, 2025) at 4:56 p.m. CET (11:56 p.m. PH time) on a chartered flight, RP-C5219, accompanied by Philippine law enforcement authorities.
A Care Package and a Visa Break for the Escort Team
According to the Philippine Embassy in The Netherlands, not only was Duterte turned over to ICC officials, but his delegation—including his nurse and aide—was also taken care of. The embassy provided them with appropriate winter clothing, a change of clothes, and care packages. After all, Dutch weather can be unforgiving, and they needed some essentials for the trip.
To give Duterte’s escorts time to rest before flying back home, The Netherlands' immigration authorities granted them two-day visas. Meanwhile, former Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, who is acting as Duterte’s legal counsel, received a 15-day visa and is set to visit him at the ICC Detention Center in Scheveningen, The Hague.
Medical Concerns and Consular Support
The Philippine Embassy also emphasized that they had already flagged ICC officials and The Netherlands' Ministry of Foreign Affairs about the need to closely monitor Duterte’s health. Reports confirm that an ICC nurse has already been in touch with Duterte’s personal nurse to discuss his medical needs. Upon arrival at the detention center, an ICC medical doctor is expected to conduct a check-up.
To ensure Duterte has access to consular assistance, the ICC provided him with a list of Philippine Embassy officials and their contact numbers.
Why Is Duterte Facing Trial at the ICC?
Duterte’s surrender comes after the ICC issued an arrest warrant against him on February 10, 2025. The former president faces charges of crimes against humanity—including murder, torture, and rape—linked to his leadership of the Davao Death Squad (DDS) and his administration’s war on drugs.
The ICC believes there is enough evidence to hold Duterte accountable as an indirect co-perpetrator of these crimes, which allegedly took place between November 1, 2011, and March 16, 2019. Investigators claim that the extrajudicial killings were part of a widespread and systematic attack on civilians, first in Davao and later nationwide.
What’s Next?
Duterte’s first hearing at the ICC will be scheduled soon. During this appearance, he will be formally identified, informed of the charges against him, and briefed on his rights under the Rome Statute.
ICC Registrar Osvaldo Zavala Giler thanked the Philippine government for cooperating with international justice mechanisms. Despite the Philippines officially withdrawing from the ICC in 2019, the court maintains jurisdiction over alleged crimes committed while the country was still a member.
As the world watches this historic case unfold, one thing is clear—this marks a significant moment in international justice and accountability.
A Care Package and a Visa Break for the Escort Team
According to the Philippine Embassy in The Netherlands, not only was Duterte turned over to ICC officials, but his delegation—including his nurse and aide—was also taken care of. The embassy provided them with appropriate winter clothing, a change of clothes, and care packages. After all, Dutch weather can be unforgiving, and they needed some essentials for the trip.
To give Duterte’s escorts time to rest before flying back home, The Netherlands' immigration authorities granted them two-day visas. Meanwhile, former Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, who is acting as Duterte’s legal counsel, received a 15-day visa and is set to visit him at the ICC Detention Center in Scheveningen, The Hague.
Medical Concerns and Consular Support
The Philippine Embassy also emphasized that they had already flagged ICC officials and The Netherlands' Ministry of Foreign Affairs about the need to closely monitor Duterte’s health. Reports confirm that an ICC nurse has already been in touch with Duterte’s personal nurse to discuss his medical needs. Upon arrival at the detention center, an ICC medical doctor is expected to conduct a check-up.
To ensure Duterte has access to consular assistance, the ICC provided him with a list of Philippine Embassy officials and their contact numbers.
Why Is Duterte Facing Trial at the ICC?
Duterte’s surrender comes after the ICC issued an arrest warrant against him on February 10, 2025. The former president faces charges of crimes against humanity—including murder, torture, and rape—linked to his leadership of the Davao Death Squad (DDS) and his administration’s war on drugs.
The ICC believes there is enough evidence to hold Duterte accountable as an indirect co-perpetrator of these crimes, which allegedly took place between November 1, 2011, and March 16, 2019. Investigators claim that the extrajudicial killings were part of a widespread and systematic attack on civilians, first in Davao and later nationwide.
What’s Next?
Duterte’s first hearing at the ICC will be scheduled soon. During this appearance, he will be formally identified, informed of the charges against him, and briefed on his rights under the Rome Statute.
ICC Registrar Osvaldo Zavala Giler thanked the Philippine government for cooperating with international justice mechanisms. Despite the Philippines officially withdrawing from the ICC in 2019, the court maintains jurisdiction over alleged crimes committed while the country was still a member.
As the world watches this historic case unfold, one thing is clear—this marks a significant moment in international justice and accountability.
Mar 13, 2025
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