Philippine ex-President Duterte appears at International Criminal Court via video link

Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte appeared before judges at the International Criminal Court (ICC) on Friday via videoconference, following his recent arrest in Manila on murder charges related to his controversial "war on drugs" while he was in office.

The 79-year-old did not attend the court hearing in The Hague in person but participated through a video link from a detention centre nearby where he is being held.

Presiding Judge Iulia Antoanella Motoc explained that Duterte was allowed to participate remotely due to his recent long flight.

During the session, Duterte, dressed in a jacket and tie, listened to proceedings with headphones, occasionally closing his eyes. He spoke briefly in English to confirm his name, and his date and place of birth but was not required to enter a plea.

Duterte’s lawyer, Salvador Medialdea, criticised the arrest of his client.

"He was summarily transported to The Hague," Medialdea said. "To lawyers it’s extrajudicial rendition. For less legal minds it’s pure and simple kidnapping."

Medialdea argued that Duterte had been denied access to legal recourse in the Philippines, framing the arrest as politically motivated.

Motoc has scheduled a pretrial hearing for 23 September to determine whether the prosecution's evidence is strong enough to proceed with a full trial. If the case advances to trial and Duterte is found guilty, he faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.

Medialdea also mentioned that Duterte had been under medical observation at a hospital due to health concerns.

However, the judge told the court that the attending doctor deemed Duterte mentally alert and fit for the proceedings.

Protesters both for and against Duterte gathered outside the court in The Hague on Friday.

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