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Former Philippine President Duterte Remains Detained at ICC, Debunking False Release Claims
Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte remains in custody at the International Criminal Court (ICC) detention center in The Hague, despite widespread social media claims suggesting otherwise. A series of viral Facebook posts falsely stating that the ICC had approved Duterte’s return to the Philippines with a tracking device have been debunked as misinformation.
The fabricated claim gained significant traction on Facebook, with the most popular post garnering over 8,800 reactions, 1,200 comments, and 423 shares. These posts, shared by a page called “SNN” that presents itself as a news outlet with 162,000 followers, feature an identical graphic showing Duterte with long, graying hair in a court setting.
“Rodrigo Duterte, pinayagan na ng ICC makabalik sa Pilipinas at lalagyan ito ng tracker kung saan man sya pupunta,” reads the text on these graphics, claiming the ICC had permitted Duterte to return to the Philippines while equipped with a location tracker. Comments on these posts indicate many users believed the false information, with one commenter expressing relief at the prospect of Duterte’s return.
Contrary to these claims, official records show no such ruling exists. The ICC’s official website contains no announcement or decision regarding Duterte’s release with tracking conditions. In fact, the former president remains in ICC custody following an unsuccessful appeal for interim release in November 2025. He is currently awaiting his confirmation of charges hearing, scheduled for February 23-27.
The false claims emerged just weeks before these critical hearings. On January 26, the ICC’s Pre-Trial Chamber I determined that Duterte is fit to participate in pre-trial proceedings, rejecting his legal team’s assertions that he suffers from cognitive impairment that would render him unfit for trial.
“Having regard to the relevant legal principles, the medical assessment of a panel of three independent medical experts and all of the relevant circumstances of the case, the Chamber was satisfied that Mr Duterte is able effectively to exercise his procedural rights,” stated the court in its January 2026 decision.
Despite being deemed fit for trial, Duterte has requested to waive his right to attend his confirmation of charges hearing. In a letter submitted through his lawyer, he cited poor health and his refusal to recognize the chamber’s jurisdiction. “I do not wish to attend legal proceedings that I will forget within minutes. I am old, tired, and frail. I wish for this Court to respect my peace inside the cell it has placed me. I have accepted the fact that I could die in prison,” the letter stated.
This is not the first instance of misinformation regarding Duterte’s ICC case. Multiple false narratives have circulated as his confirmation hearing approaches, with the most common claiming he is either set for release or suffering severe health complications.
The spread of such fabricated claims highlights the ongoing challenge of combating misinformation on social media platforms, particularly regarding high-profile international legal cases. The ICC case against Duterte has remained a contentious and closely watched matter in the Philippines, where his controversial drug war led to thousands of deaths during his presidency from 2016 to 2022.
As the February hearings approach, officials continue to urge the public to verify information through official channels and credible news sources rather than relying on unsubstantiated social media posts that may distort the facts of the ongoing legal proceedings.
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8 Comments
This is a useful fact check on the misinformation about Duterte’s status at the ICC. It’s important to have authoritative sources provide the accurate information to counter the spread of false claims.
Absolutely. Maintaining the integrity of information, especially around legal and political matters, is crucial. Well-researched fact-checking helps combat the proliferation of misleading narratives.
This is an interesting fact check on the claims about Duterte’s release from ICC custody. It’s important to verify information, especially around high-profile legal cases, to avoid the spread of misinformation.
You’re right, the details in this case seem to clearly show the social media claims are false. It’s good to see debunking of such misleading information.
The details in this fact check provide a clear picture – Duterte is still in ICC custody, and the claims of his release with a tracking device are fabricated. Appreciate the diligence in debunking these false rumors.
Glad to see this fact check setting the record straight on Duterte’s continued detention at the ICC, despite the false social media posts. Verifying claims and providing the accurate details is so important.
Glad to see the ICC detention of Duterte remains in effect, despite the false social media posts claiming otherwise. Fact-checking is crucial to counter the spread of disinformation.
Completely agree. Verifying the facts around legal cases and high-profile figures is vital, especially with the ease of misinformation spreading on social media these days.