The International Criminal Court (ICC) on Friday rejected the request of former president Rodrigo Duterte's camp to challenge its earlier ruling that found him fit to face prosecution for crimes against humanity.
In its motion, the defense claimed that Pre-Trial Chamber I committed errors in fact and law when it allegedly disregarded key clinical evidence regarding Duterte's supposed unfitness to stand trial.
The court noted that, as both the defense and prosecution acknowledged, Duterte's fitness may be reassessed during trial should any or all charges be confirmed.
In a separate development, the ICC authorized 500 individuals to participate in the case as victims. The Common Legal Representative for Victims will represent these admitted participants in the proceedings.
Duterte has been detained at the ICC detention facility in The Hague since March 12, 2025, pending trial over alleged abuses linked to his anti-drug campaign during his tenure as Davao City mayor and later as president.
The confirmation of charges hearing is scheduled from February 23 to 27.
