Vice President Sara Duterte pushed back against unverified reports claiming former President Rodrigo Duterte fainted inside his detention facility at The Hague in the Netherlands. She said the claim was false and stressed that the former president confirmed his condition directly through his legal team.
According to the vice president, Duterte was asked about the rumor by his lawyer and made it clear that the circulating story had no basis. She said the misinformation added unnecessary tension at a time when the family and supporters were focused on the upcoming ruling of the International Criminal Court’s Appeals Chamber.
The Appeals Chamber is set to issue its decision Friday on the earlier ruling of the ICC pre-trial chamber. Duterte’s camp has been seeking interim release while proceedings continue. VP Sara expressed hope that the outcome would favor their request, noting that the family has been awaiting clarity on the next legal steps.
The vice president did not offer additional details on Duterte’s current daily situation at The Hague but emphasized that the former leader remains in good condition. She also called for caution in spreading claims that have not been verified, saying it only contributes to confusion among the public.
Duterte has been detained while facing proceedings related to alleged crimes connected to the government’s anti-drug campaign. His camp has maintained that he continues to cooperate with legal processes while contesting the charges.
As supporters await the ICC’s decision, VP Sara said the family remains focused on legal remedies and hopes for a ruling that will allow Duterte temporary release as the appeal moves forward.
