Malingering or memory loss? Duterte to appear in ICC courtroom for assessment

Former Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte appeared in person at the International Criminal Court for the first time on Wednesday as he faces charges over his “war on drugs” that killed thousands.

The 81-year-old had appeared by video link when he was first brought to the court in The Hague, but had since skipped hearings, with his defence team claiming he was too ill.

Dressed in a dark suit and white shirt with no tie, Duterte sat with his chin resting on his hands as the proceedings opened.

Judge Joanna Korner noted his appearance in court for the first time and said he could leave the court at any time without seeking permission from the bench.

Duterte faces three counts of crimes against humanity, with prosecutors alleging his involvement in at least 76 murders between 2013 and 2018 during his offensive against drug users and sellers.