FALSE: Former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte physically attends his ICC hearing while sick

Jhovance Alecxis Dajao

A social media post circulating online claims that former Philippine President Rodrigo Roa Duterte physically appeared inside an International Criminal Court (ICC) courtroom during his hearing in The Hague.

CLAIM:

A viral Facebook post alleges that Duterte was seen inside an ICC courtroom, accompanied by the caption “My God, it pains my heart to see this” in the Visayan language and the hashtag “Bring PRRD Home”, along with three images presented as evidence.

The post includes:

• Duterte inside an ICC courtroom
• Duterte using a walking aid and appearing frail
• Assistance from his legal counsel Peter Haynes while being seated
• ICC Judge Joanna Korner presiding over proceedings at the Hague-based tribunal

RATING: FALSE

CONCLUSION:

There is no official record, verified report, or ICC announcement confirming that Duterte physically attended any court hearing. The images circulating online as evidence are AI-generated and digitally manipulated.

1. THE FACTS: 

• AFP Fact Check confirmed that the viral images showing Duterte inside an ICC courtroom are AI-generated and not authentic photographs of any hearing.
• The ICC has not yet released any official imagery or statement confirming in-person attendance by Duterte.
• Despite being deemed fit for the hearing, Duterte did not appear in person at the ICC, and his defense team stated that he was not mentally sharp enough to fully follow the proceedings.
• His counsel, British barrister Peter Haynes, later argued he was not fit to stand trial, prompting further medical evaluation ordered by the court. 
• AFP reported he is unlikely to physically attend ICC proceedings, with hearings conducted in his absence.
• He has only been seen once via video link during his initial appearance in March 2025 after his transfer to The Hague.

THE BOTTOMLINE:

Duterte did not physically attend any ICC hearing. The circulating images are AI-Generated and have been verified as fabricated by AFP Fact Check, with no official ICC record supporting such appearances.