Party-list calls for compassion ahead of ICC ruling on Duterte's interim release
At A Glance
- A ranking congressman from the minority bloc is calling for "calm and compassion" ahead of the ruling of the International Criminal Court (ICC) on former president Rodrigo Duterte's request for interim release on the basis of the latter's deteriorating health.
Former president Rodrigo Duterte (PPAB)
A ranking congressman from the minority bloc is calling for "calm and compassion" ahead of the ruling of the International Criminal Court (ICC) on former president Rodrigo Duterte’s request for interim release on the basis of the latter's deteriorating health.
In a statement Wednesday, Nov. 26, Assistant Minority Leader Bagong Henerasyon (BH) Party-list Rep. Robert Nazal recognized that many Filipinos continue to seek justice for past abuses.
“We have walked a long, painful road as a people, through wounds both visible and unseen. Many still grieve. Many still wait for justice. And we must never diminish that pain, nor forget the cost of silence,” BH Party-list said.
“However, we must also remember that justice is not vengeance, and that compassion is not weakness,” it added.
The ICC Appeals Chamber is set to issue its judgment on Nov. 28, 2025. Recent reports on Duterte’s declining condition while in detention have led to appeals from various groups for humanitarian consideration.
The party-list says the 80-year-old Duterte--once a dominant figure in national politics--is now an elderly detainee facing health challenges.
“Whether one sees a faded hero or a fallen leader, it is not difficult to see the shadows of our own fathers, and our own grandfathers: weak, frail, and mortal,” the party-list said.
BH Party-list said it is praying for a ruling that takes into account both the rights of the victims and the humanitarian issues tied to Duterte’s condition.
“On behalf of the Bagong Henerasyon Party-list, we are praying for a decision that balances justice with humanitarian compassion, and one that will help put closure on an issue that has divided our country. Let us also continue to pray for the former President especially for his health,” it said.
The group has also urged Filipinos to respect the process as the country awaits the ICC’s decision.