Vice‑President Sara Duterte‑Carpio has called on the International Criminal Court to accelerate the trial of her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, citing concerns about his age and health.
She said her family has repeatedly urged the tribunal to advance proceedings, noting that he has already spent more than a year and four months in detention.
The court has set the trial to begin on November 30 after confirming charges of crimes against humanity linked to killings during the anti‑drug campaign.
Ms. Duterte stressed the importance of upholding the presumption of innocence and avoiding unnecessary delays in the legal process.
She also reported that her father is dealing with a skin condition while in custody, describing visits and medical treatment he is receiving.
The Vice‑President expressed anger over what her family views as an unlawful removal of her father from the Philippines, describing the transfer as a kidnapping.
She acknowledged the possibility that her father could die in detention due to his age, and said she wishes he would die on Philippine soil.
His transfer to ICC custody occurred in March 2025 after Philippine authorities enforced an arrest warrant issued by the tribunal in connection with the investigation.
