UPLM: ICC denial of Duterte release ‘critical’ for witness safety

THE Union of Peoples’ Lawyers in Mindanao (UPLM) on Friday, Nov. 28, hailed the International Criminal Court (ICC) Appeals Chamber’s unanimous decision to deny former President Rodrigo R. Duterte’s appeal for interim release, calling the ruling a necessary safeguard for victims and witnesses.

In an emailed statement, the UPLM described the decision as a “significant and crucial preliminary victory” for survivors of the “war on drugs” and other alleged crimes against humanity. 

The group noted that the ruling upholds the Pre-Trial Chamber I’s earlier decision, ensuring Duterte remains in detention pending the confirmation of charges hearing.

According to the legal group, the Appeals Chamber’s judgment prioritizes the integrity of the judicial process over political maneuvering.

“This ruling confirms the ICC’s assessment that Duterte’s continued detention is absolutely necessary to mitigate the manifest and persistent risks he poses to the security of victims and potential witnesses, as well as the risk of obstructing the proceedings,” UPLM Chair Antonio Azarcon said.

Azarcon also noted that the defense’s attempt to secure temporary freedom on health and humanitarian grounds was “properly denied,” with the court underscoring the gravity of the charges and the need for cooperation with international justice mechanisms.

“For the thousands of families who have faced years of grief, impunity, and fear, this decision provides a much-needed degree of assurance,” the statement reads in part. 

For his part, UPLM Spokesman Arvin Dexter Lopoz pointed out that the decision supports the principle that no one is above the law.

The lawyers’ group urged the ICC to proceed without delay to the confirmation of charges hearing and called for the arrest of Duterte’s alleged co-perpetrators.

“This is not the end of the quest, but it is a powerful stride forward. The denial of interim release keeps the accountability door wide open,” Lopoz said.