DAVAO CITY – The defense team of former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has requested that the International Criminal Court remove the newly appointed neuropsychologist assigned to assess his fitness to stand trial, citing concerns over the expert’s qualifications and impartiality.
In a public redacted version of the filing dated November 7, 2025, and registered under case number ICC-01/21-01/25, Duterte’s lawyers urged the ICC’s Pre-Trial Chamber I—composed of Presiding Judge Iulia Antoanella Motoc, Judge Reine Adelaide Sophie Alapini-Gansou, and Judge María del Socorro Flores Liera—to remove the court-appointed specialist from the case.
Duterte’s defense argued that the appointed neuropsychologist “lacks the necessary experience” to handle a complex and high-profile assessment such as that involving a former head of state.
They also pointed to the expert’s alleged unprofessional social media activity, claiming that certain posts display bias against the former Chief Executive.
The ICC previously approved the formation of a panel of medical experts to evaluate Duterte’s mental and psychological fitness as part of the ongoing investigation into the controversial “war on drugs” campaign during his administration.
Duterte’s legal team emphasized that the credibility of the process relies heavily on the neutrality and competence of the individuals involved, stressing that any perception of bias could undermine the integrity of the proceedings.
As of press time, the ICC has not yet ruled on the defense’s request. (By Ivy Tejano)
