‘Pure theater’: Makabayan bloc hits Duterte for health-based ICC plea

Makabayan bloc lawmakers intensified their criticism of former president Rody Duterte after he sought to waive his attendance at his confirmation of charges hearing before the International Criminal Court, citing his frailty and old age.

In a statement following Duterte’s formal request to the ICC to excuse his physical appearance at the proceedings in The Hague, ACT Teachers party-list Rep. Antonio Tinio, Gabriela party-list Rep. Sarah Jane Elago and Kabataan party-list Rep. Renee Louise Co claimed Duterte’s letter asking the ICC to waive his right was dismissive of drug war victims.

In his communication to the court, Duterte said he is “old, tired and frail” and asked the ICC to respect his peace inside the cell it has placed him. The confirmation hearing will determine whether there are substantial grounds to move forward to trial over alleged crimes against humanity connected to his anti-drug campaign.

“Duterte’s letter is pure theater—one part defiant, one part paawa drama, but entirely unrepentant and dismissive of those who suffered and died under his brutal anti-drug campaign,” the Makabayan statement read.

Makabayan lawmakers also said Duterte’s claim that he is “old, tired, and frail” comes off as dismissive of drug war victims, whom they said were “denied the chance to grow old, to finish their studies, to build their futures.”

The bloc urged the ICC to proceed with the confirmation process regardless of Duterte’s request and emphasized that the hearing is a crucial step in determining whether the case will advance to trial.

Makabayan also said ICC proceedings represent an opportunity for victims’ voices to be heard in a formal legal forum. The ICC has yet to rule on Duterte’s request to waive his personal attendance. If granted, he may still be represented by counsel as judges evaluate the evidence and determine the next phase of the case in The Hague.