Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte Set for Initial ICC Appearance

Former President of the Philippines, Rodrigo Duterte, is set to make his first appearance at the International Criminal Court on Friday, as announced by the court on Thursday. During this preliminary hearing, the judges will confirm Duterte's identity and establish the language he prefers for the proceedings. He will be informed of the specific charges lodged against him and receive details about his rights under the ICC's Rome Statute.

On Tuesday morning, Duterte, who is now 79 years old, was taken into custody upon returning to Manila after an overseas trip. This action followed an arrest warrant issued by the ICC concerning his controversial anti-drug campaign, which he has publicly challenged. Subsequently, he was brought under ICC custody on Wednesday, following a flight from Manila to the Netherlands.