Palace Press Officer and Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro believes that the International Criminal Court (ICC) pre-trial hearing on the case of former president Rodrigo Duterte showed that the latter was afforded his rights, contrary to the claim of his camp.

Castro said this as Duterte appeared, albeit virtually, for the first time at the ICC late Friday, March 14 (Manila time).

In a text message to reporters, the Palace official called the proceeding a "fair trial."

"It reveals further that FP (former president) Duterte was indeed afforded his fundamental rights as a suspect of crimes against humanity, specifically murder, contrary to Duterte's camp statements," she said Saturday morning, March 15.

"This is what we call [a] fair trial," she added.

According to Castro, Duterte's first appearance before the ICC showed how justice starts to roll down.

"No postponement of this first appearance was accepted by the Court since there is no need and it is not yet the time for the suspect to present his defenses and evidence," she said.

"The judge even emphasized that the Court's doctor gave the opinion that FP Duterte is fully mentally aware and fit and that he had undergone further checks and tests at the detention facility," she added.

Castro likewise pointed out how the Court, based on the report of the registry, confirmed that Duterte was informed of his rights, and he was aware of the warrant of arrest in the English language.

On Friday, Malacañang assured the public that the Philippine government, despite having no hand in ICC proceedings, will make sure that Duterte will get a fair trial.

Duterte was turned over to the ICC on March 11. His confirmation of charges hearing is on Sept. 23.