Former president Rodrigo Duterte remains in stable condition and is gradually adjusting as he awaits developments in his case before the International Criminal Court, his daughter Veronica Duterte said following her visit on April 20.
In an interview, Veronica “Kitty” Duterte said her father appears physically well, noting that he “looks good,” is eating properly, and continues to be under the care of his legal team.
“He’s in good hands,” she said, adding that while his situation remains difficult, he has begun to cope.
She acknowledged, however, that the former president still experiences loneliness at times due to his current circumstances.
Kitty shared that her father told her, “At least you won’t be embarrassed of me kasi wala akong ginawang masama.” She responded by assuring him of their support, saying their family remains proud.
As the anticipated hearings and appeals chamber decision approach, she said both of them have turned to faith. “I’m just really praying, kasi at the end of the day, it’s beyond our control,” she said, adding that her father has also expressed trust in God regarding the outcome of the case.
The younger Duterte also addressed ongoing political pressure on their family, including scrutiny involving her sister, Sara Duterte, describing such criticism as “inevitable” for public figures.
She also expressed gratitude to supporters closely monitoring the proceedings, noting that it has been difficult for their family to watch the hearings. “Maraming salamat sa inyo. I hope we never stop until he is home. Bring him home,” she said.
Duterte is facing three counts of crimes against humanity before the ICC, with prosecutors alleging his involvement in at least 76 killings between 2013 and 2018.
He was arrested in Manila in March last year and was later transferred to the Netherlands, where he is currently detained at the ICC detention facility in Scheveningen.
