Tunis:Malacañang has expressed hope that former president Rodrigo Duterte will reveal the truth about his war on drugs during his upcoming trial at the International Criminal Court (ICC).
According to Philippines News Agency, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro stated that Filipinos are eager for Duterte to regain his strength and maintain good health to address the allegations against him. Castro emphasized that the former president can only disclose the truth if he is physically and mentally sound.
The comments followed the ICC Trial Chamber III's decision ruling Duterte as "fit to stand trial" for crimes against humanity. The chamber's decision, released on Thursday, found no new evidence of deterioration in Duterte's mental state or cognitive abilities, despite some inconsistencies. It highlighted that his health has improved due to high-standard medical care.
The court acknowledged that Duterte experiences some physical and mental slowing due to age but is still capable of participating in the trial proceedings and exercising his procedural rights. Castro also expressed hope that Duterte would discuss his alleged admission regarding plans to carry out killings as part of his anti-drug campaign.
Duterte faces three counts of crimes against humanity for alleged murders and attempted murders linked to his anti-drug campaign from 2013 to 2018, during his time as Davao City mayor and president.
