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Former Philippine President Duterte Remains in ICC Custody Despite False Claims of Release
Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte continues to be held in detention at Scheveningen in The Hague, Netherlands, following an unsuccessful appeal for interim release in November 2025, contrary to viral misinformation circulating online.
A TikTok video garnering over 230,000 views falsely claimed that an International Criminal Court (ICC) judge had authorized Duterte’s return to the Philippines in 2026. The video, which has accumulated thousands of likes and shares, features a fabricated quote card attributed to a non-existent “Judge Whitney Solomy Balungi Tyson Bossa.”
The manufactured statement claimed: “I now authorize the International Trial Court to facilitate Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s return to the Philippines in 2026 as a statement of support for the calls embodied in the signature campaign of the people under the banner ‘Tay, kami naman (Dad, it’s our turn now).'” The false quote continues by suggesting that Duterte and his associates would be granted amnesty in 2026.
An investigation reveals multiple inconsistencies in the claim. The purported judge’s name appears to be a manipulation of an actual ICC judge, Solomy Balungi Bossa, combined with elements of 1990s comedian Whitney Tyson’s name. Moreover, the image used in the quote card has been identified as a deepfake, likely combining photographs of both women.
Judge Bossa has not made any public statements regarding Duterte’s case and is not assigned to the ICC’s Pre-Trial Chamber I, which is handling proceedings against the former Philippine president.
Duterte was arrested in March 2025 on charges of crimes against humanity related to his controversial drug war policies. His case has faced delays after his legal team contested his fitness to stand trial. The charges stem from his administration’s aggressive anti-narcotics campaign, which human rights organizations claim resulted in thousands of extrajudicial killings.
Meanwhile, the ICC’s Office of the Prosecutor continues to gather evidence against Duterte, recently renewing calls for witnesses to come forward with testimony regarding alleged abuses during his drug war campaign. On January 16, the ICC promoted a microsite launched in 2024 dedicated to collecting information from individuals with direct knowledge of potential crimes.
Prosecutors are particularly interested in incidents occurring between November 2011 and March 2019, a period encompassing Duterte’s tenure as mayor of Davao City and the initial years of his presidency. The ICC has specifically encouraged members of the Philippine National Police and other law enforcement agencies to provide information to investigators.
The circulation of false information regarding Duterte’s legal status comes amid continuing polarization in Philippine politics regarding his legacy. While supporters maintain that his hardline approach to crime was necessary, critics point to significant human rights concerns raised by domestic and international organizations.
The ICC’s investigation represents one of the most high-profile cases against a former head of state in recent years, highlighting the court’s role in addressing allegations of state-sanctioned violence and human rights abuses on a global stage.
Neither the ICC’s official website nor any credible international news sources have reported any plans for Duterte’s release or return to the Philippines, confirming that the viral claims remain entirely unfounded.
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8 Comments
This is a complex and sensitive case, but the ICC’s clear denial of Duterte’s release is an important statement. I hope the legal proceedings can continue without further attempts to distort the facts.
The ICC’s denial of Duterte’s release is a reminder that even former heads of state must be accountable for their actions. I’m curious to see how this case progresses and whether justice will be served.
Absolutely. No one should be above the law, regardless of their political status. It’s reassuring to see the ICC upholding its principles and not succumbing to misinformation.
This fake quote card is a concerning attempt to spread disinformation and sow confusion. The ICC’s clear statement that Duterte remains in custody is a testament to their commitment to the truth.
While I appreciate the desire for Duterte’s return, the ICC’s decision must be respected. Attempting to undermine the legal process through fabricated evidence is unacceptable and undermines the integrity of the court.
I agree. The rule of law and due process must be upheld, even in cases that may be politically charged. Misinformation only serves to weaken the system of international justice.
This is a concerning development regarding the Duterte case. It’s important that the ICC’s decisions are respected and not undermined by misinformation. I hope the legal process continues to uphold the rule of law.
Agreed. Fabricated statements and false claims about court rulings are highly problematic and undermine public trust in institutions. The ICC must be allowed to carry out its mandate objectively.