The International Criminal Court (ICC) has disallowed in-person family visits for former President Rodrigo Duterte during the upcoming confirmation of charges hearings, according to a statement released by the Duterte family.
“Please be informed that there are no approved in-person family visits to Former President Rodrigo Duterte while the court conducts hearings,” the notice stated.
The hearings, set to begin on February 23, will be conducted by the ICC’s Pre-Trial Chamber I to determine whether there is sufficient evidence to proceed to trial.
Duterte has been accused of being an “indirect co-perpetrator” in alleged crimes against humanity linked to his administration’s anti-drug campaign.
While physical visits have been barred, the family said requests for telephone calls will continue to be accommodated.
Duterte will be assisted by a six-member legal team composed of former Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, former LTFRB chairman Martin Delgra III, former Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III, lawyer Alfredo Lim Jr., former BIR commissioner Caesar Dulay, and former Presidential Legal Counsel Salvador Panelo.
“We thank the legal team for their continued dedication and professionalism during this critical time,” the family added.