MANILA, Philippines — The ongoing legal saga of former President Rodrigo Duterte reached new heights this week as his lead defense counsel, Nicholas Kaufman, expressed confidence in a swift acquittal at the International Criminal Court (ICC). This statement comes amidst a backdrop of health concerns for one of his key lawyers, Salvador Medialdea, who was hospitalized shortly before a critical hearing.
Kaufman, a British-Israeli lawyer, stated unequivocally outside the ICC on March 18, 2025, that he was "very confident in the strongest defense possible and I’m very confident that he [Duterte] will be acquitted indeed even at the earliest stage possible." His remarks indicate a proactive stance toward countering the serious allegations of crimes against humanity stemming from Duterte's controversial war on drugs.
Medialdea, who represented Duterte during his appearance at the ICC on March 14, fell ill while at the detention center, prompting immediate medical attention. The Philippine Embassy in the Netherlands reported that he was taken to a hospital for treatment after experiencing health issues while registering at the ICC. Thankfully, a recent update from the embassy indicated that Medialdea was stable and recovering.
As Duterte's legal team navigates these challenges, they are also grappling with the political implications of the case. Vice President Sara Duterte recently clarified in an interview that neither Medialdea nor former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque is part of her father's defense team at the ICC. This clarification could reflect an ongoing restructuring of legal strategies or fallout within political circles.
Amid these developments, Representative Raoul Manuel voiced concerns regarding Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa potentially seeking refuge in the Senate if an arrest warrant were issued. Manuel insisted on March 18, 2025, that the Senate should not become a “sanctuary” for Dela Rosa, emphasizing the importance of accountability and transparency in governance.
“Are we teaching the youth that the Senate is closed for an impeachment trial but can open its doors to protect a senator facing arrest?” Manuel challenged, highlighting how such actions could set a concerning precedent for the integrity of legislative institutions.
Meanwhile, amid all this political maneuvering, the ICC's ability to freeze Duterte's assets while the trial is ongoing stands as a crucial point in the proceedings. An ICC report indicated that freezing assets would secure funding for possible damages to victims of Duterte's drug war, indicating a commitment to justice for those affected.
Gilbert Andres, a Filipino lawyer associated with the ICC, explained the process involved with asset freezes, noting that, “These assets, when it’s in the Philippines, it needs the cooperation of the Philippine domestic authorities.” The cooperation issue marks a pivotal challenge, especially considering the complexities around how local laws interact with international legal obligations.
Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro underscored the government's stance, stating that they would direct any ICC orders to the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) to execute necessary actions regarding asset management. This declaration signals a cautious willingness to engage with international legal structures while potentially navigating domestic political pressures.
In contrast, Salvador Panelo, former chief presidential legal counsel, dismissed the impetus for asset freezes, asserting that "there is nothing to freeze, Duterte is dirt poor," a statement referencing Duterte's reported net worth of over P28 million as per public declarations. This remark raises further discussions on the financial realities of former officials of the country and their access to resources during legal battles.
The road ahead is complex, with the ICC confirming that the next hearing regarding charges against Duterte is set for September 23, 2025. As these events unfold, the intertwining narratives of legal accountability, political allegiance, and public sentiment will continually shape the discourse surrounding Duterte's legacy and the broader implications of his administration's controversial policies.
As the former president faces a historic reckoning, the unfolding drama captures national attention, with citizens keenly aware of how justice is administered amid the contentious backdrop of politics and law. The upcoming proceedings are not merely about one man's defense but represent a pivotal moment in Philippine history wherein the pursuit of justice meets the complexities of governance and power dynamics.
