THE HAGUE – The Philippine Embassy in The Netherlands is actively facilitating visits to former president Rodrigo Duterte, who is currently detained at the International Criminal Court (ICC).
Duterte contacted the embassy Friday afternoon, reporting that he had received medical care and was “generally fine” following a medical check-up.
The embassy is coordinating visits from Duterte’s legal counsel and family members, as requested. They are also arranging a consular visit and have submitted the request to the ICC Registry.
This follows a previous communication between Duterte and his legal counsel, former Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, on March 13th. Duterte’s initial appearance before the ICC is scheduled for 9 p.m. Manila time.
Duterte requests ICC to allow visits from lawyer, family
Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has formally requested the International Criminal Court (ICC) to allow his lawyer and family members to visit him at the Scheveningen detention facility in The Hague, Netherlands.
According to the Philippine Embassy in The Hague, an ICC detention officer called at 3:41 PM on Thursday, March 13 (10:15 PM Manila time) to inform them that Duterte had requested a meeting with their Consular Officer.
During the call, the 79-year-old former president also requested a medical checkup, which was promptly provided by the custodial officers. Reports indicate that his health is in good condition.
“The former President then requested a visit by Embassy consular officials and also asked the Embassy to assist in the request for a visit by his legal counsel and family member, respectively,” the embassy stated.
In response, the embassy informed the ICC Registry of Duterte’s request and is working to facilitate a consular visit “in the soonest time possible.” The embassy has also followed up on Duterte’s request.
