The Senate, by a vote of 15 in favor, three against, and two abstentions, adopted Proposed Senate Resolution No. 144, urging the International Criminal Court (ICC) to place former President Rodrigo Duterte under house arrest on humanitarian grounds, citing concerns over his advanced age and declining health.
Among those who voted in favor were the resolution’s sponsors: Senators Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri, Rodante Marcoleta, Imee Marcos, Alan Cayetano, Robin Padilla, Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa, Joel Villanueva, Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada, and Christopher “Bong” Go.
Also voting yes were Senators Sherwin Gatchalian, JV Ejercito, Loren Legarda, Panfilo “Ping” Lacson, Erwin Tulfo, and Mark Villar.
Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto III and Senator Raffy Tulfo abstained from the vote.
Senators Lito Lapid, Pia Cayetano, Camille Villar, and Francis “Chiz” Escudero were not present during the nominal voting.
The resolution cites Duterte’s advanced age and deteriorating health, urging the ICC to assign a physician to assess whether he is medically fit to endure standard detention. If medical findings indicate that continued incarceration would worsen his condition, the Senate recommends that the ICC allow house arrest as an alternative.
It further states that any such arrangement should include liberty-restricting conditions imposed by the ICC and must not compromise the integrity of the ongoing trial.
The resolution references Article 10(1) of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which affirms that all persons deprived of liberty must be treated with humanity and respect for their inherent dignity.
Additionally, it highlights provisions in the ICC’s Rules of Procedure and Evidence that permit interim release under specific conditions, such as residing at a designated address, avoiding contact with victims or witnesses, and complying with summonses from authorized ICC personnel. (Dhel Nazario)
