MANILA, Philippines — Pre-trial judges of the International Criminal Court (ICC) have denied former president Rodrigo Duterte’s request to appeal the decision declaring him fit to participate in pre-trial proceedings. Duterte’s counsel Nicholas Kaufman had requested for leave to appeal the Jan. 26 decision of the ICC Pre-Trial Chamber I. All issues cited by Kaufman are not appealable, the judges pointed out, noting that his request “mispresented” the decision. With the denial of Kaufman’s request, the Feb. 23 confirmation hearing is expected to proceed. Meanwhile, the ICC prosecutor said it takes no position on Kaufman’s request to disqualify the Filipino lawyers appointed by the ICC to represent victims in the proceedings.

Source: Philippine Star February 17, 2026 16:33 UTC