In a recent visit to the International Criminal Court (ICC) detention facility in The Hague, Vice President Sara Duterte met with her father, former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, following his arrest on charges of crimes against humanity. The encounter offered a rare glimpse into the former leader’s current condition and revealed the family’s stance amid complex legal challenges.
Personal Encounter Amid Legal Proceedings
During a one-hour session in the designated visiting area, Vice President Sara Duterte provided media outlets with details of her meeting with her father. Despite the gravity of the charges against him, the former president appeared notably well-rested, having spent much of his time sleeping and watching television. However, he was quick to express his longing for the comforts of home, specifically mentioning his craving for “inun-unan” – a Visayan dish similar to the popular paksiw, where fish is gently simmered in vinegar.
During their conversation, the ex-leader stressed the importance of remaining connected to his homeland. “Do not leave the country. Do not leave the Philippines,” he reportedly urged, reflecting his deep ties to his roots. In response, Vice President Duterte explained that she is currently the only family member with a Schengen visa and the necessary legal background to help coordinate his defense. She reassured him that once the legal team was fully assembled, she would return to the Philippines and continue to support the case remotely.
Legal Representation and Family Coordination
It was disclosed that former President Duterte has retained British lawyer Nicholas Kaufman as his defense counsel. Vice President Duterte outlined plans to build a comprehensive legal team, noting that other members of the family are actively working to secure visas to join in support. Additionally, she advised her father to keep the detention facility’s medical staff promptly informed of any health concerns, a precaution underscoring the family’s dedication to his well-being during these trying times.
Allegations of ‘Kidnapping’ and Jurisdictional Challenges
The manner of Duterte’s arrest has ignited controversy. One of his legal advisors, Harry Roque, labeled the detainment as a form of “extraordinary rendition” – a term he equated with kidnapping. Roque argued that such irregularities should undermine the ICC’s jurisdiction over the case, and he signaled plans to contest the legal authority before the confirmation of charges hearing scheduled for September 23. Vice President Duterte echoed these concerns, describing her father’s transfer to the ICC in similar stark terms.
Support and Resilience Amidst Adversity
Outside the detention facility, Vice President Duterte conveyed a message of calm and resilience to supporters. Quoting her father’s optimistic words—“Relax lang, may hangganan ang lahat. There will be a day of reckoning for all”—she acknowledged the formidable challenges facing their family. The visit not only highlighted personal concern but also underscored a commitment to a unified legal and political strategy. As the pretrial hearing approaches, the family’s coordinated efforts continue to draw both national and international attention, symbolizing their steadfast resolve during legal turbulence.