On March 14, the ICC opened the trial of former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte on charges of crimes against humanity related to the anti-drug campaign conducted by the Manila government during his time in power.

Presiding judge Iulia Motoc allowed Mr Duterte to attend online via video following a long flight to The Hague since his arrest in Manila on March 11.

Dressed in a blue suit and tie, the former Philippine leader spoke in a weak voice and briefly confirmed his name and date of birth. The hearing was held to list the charges Mr Duterte faces and his rights as a defendant.

Defense lawyer Salvador Medialdea told the court that his client was “abducted from his homeland” and that Duterte’s health was failing. “Other than identifying himself, he cannot attend this trial,” AFP quoted the lawyer as saying.

Mr. Duterte appeared tired throughout the remote court proceedings and often had to close his eyes for long periods.

However, Judge Motoc told Mr Duterte that the court doctor had confirmed that the defendant was mentally sound and physically sound. The judge set September 23 for the next phase of the trial, namely the hearing to confirm the charges against the former Philippine President.

Previously, Mr. Duterte affirmed that he would take "full responsibility" for the anti-drug campaign of the government he leads.

The ICC confirmed that the current Manila administration had executed the arrest warrant at the request of the ICC. Mr. Duterte is the first former leader of an Asian country to be arrested under this process.