Families of victims, human rights lawyers, and progressive organizations strongly opposed former president Rodrigo Duterte’s appeal for temporary release from detention at the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague, The Netherlands. They said this move threatens justice for the thousands killed under the “war on drugs” and will further strengthen the culture of impunity for crimes against humanity.

Families of victims expressed a mixture of anger, fear, and anxiety over this news. Rise Up for Life and for Rights stated that families of victims feel anxious about the possibility that the main perpetrator in the killing of their relatives might be released.

They emphasized that the appeal is dangerous because Duterte’s camp could use it to evade accountability and to intimidate those seeking justice. “Families hope that Duterte’s interim release will not happen, because it would be frightening if granted. What will become of almost ten years of seeking justice if Duterte is released and possibly returns to the Philippines?” they said.

“Families of victims have already gone through so much hardship and continue to suffer… their only wish is for justice,” Rise Up coordinator Deaconess Rubylin G. Litao said.

Meanwhile, the National Union of Peoples’ Lawyers (NUPL) called on the ICC to deny Duterte’s appeal, which is based on alleged “humanitarian grounds.”

The group said that claiming he is not a flight risk is untrue, since his network in politics remains strong and he has decades of experience in evading accountability.

“A former most powerful Philippine official does not simply lose power,” said Atty. Josalee S. Deinla, secretary general of the NUPL.

“Humanitarian considerations should not outweigh the rights of victims to see justice through to the end. The ICC facility, which is far superior to prisons in the Philippines, ensures humane treatment of Duterte while he is detained,” said the NUPL.

They also highlighted the context of impunity in the Philippines, especially since the Senate recently refused to hear the impeachment case against Duterte’s daughter, Sara.

“The fight for the highest Philippine officials’ accountability is not only elusive, but is systematically being impeded,” lawyers said.

“Releasing Duterte from The Hague custody would send a troubling message that even those accused of crimes against humanity and other grave crimes can ask for special treatment in court,” Bagong Alyansang Makabayan said.

“Duterte is a liar who repeatedly reverses his own pronouncements when it suits him. His temporary release threatens those seeking truth, justice, and accountability, especially victims, witnesses, and lawyers involved in his case,” it said.

Bayan also stressed that the Duterte family remains powerful in politics. His daughter is vice president, and his dynasty continues to dominate Davao City.

“Releasing Duterte will strengthen the machinery of deception and repression against those demanding justice and accountability,” it said.

Groups collectively called on the ICC to reject Duterte’s appeal for temporary release and to respect the rights of victims.

“There is no compelling reason to grant special consideration to the very mastermind of these atrocities,” NUPL’s Atty. Deinla insisted.

For the families of victims, the message is clear: “Families hope that Duterte’s interim release will not happen, because it would be frightening if granted.”