Robin Padilla Sounds Alarm Over Duterte’s Deteriorating Health Amid ICC Detention

In a dramatic turn of events that has sent shockwaves through the Philippines, Senator Robin Padilla has publicly expressed grave concerns over the health of former President Rodrigo Duterte, currently detained at the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague. Padilla’s revelations have ignited a firestorm of reactions, highlighting the intense political and emotional stakes surrounding Duterte’s ongoing legal battles.

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A Nation on Edge

Senator Padilla, a known ally and staunch supporter of Duterte, took to social media to voice his apprehensions. “The health of our former President is not just a personal matter; it’s a national concern,” Padilla stated. He emphasized that Duterte’s well-being is intrinsically linked to the country’s stability, cautioning that any deterioration could have far-reaching implications .

Medical Concerns Mount

Reports have surfaced indicating that Duterte’s health has been compromised since his detention. According to his physician, the former president’s blood sugar levels have surged dangerously, necessitating immediate medical attention. “Despite insulin treatments, his condition has not stabilized, and confinement is essential,” the doctor noted .

Adding to the gravity of the situation, Salvador Medialdea, Duterte’s lead counsel and former executive secretary, was recently rushed to a hospital in The Hague. The incident occurred while Medialdea was visiting Duterte, underscoring the emotional and physical toll the proceedings are taking on those involved .

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Legal Battles Intensify

Duterte’s arrest on March 11, 2025, marked a historic moment as he became the first Asian former head of state to be tried at the ICC. He faces charges of crimes against humanity related to his controversial “war on drugs,” which allegedly resulted in thousands of extrajudicial killings. The ICC has scheduled a pre-trial hearing for September 23 to determine if the prosecution’s evidence warrants a full trial .

Despite the serious charges, Duterte has maintained his innocence, asserting that his actions were in the interest of national security. His legal team has argued that the ICC lacks jurisdiction, citing the Philippines’ withdrawal from the court in 2019 .

Public Outcry and Political Ramifications

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The developments have sparked widespread protests across the Philippines. Supporters of Duterte have organized rallies demanding his release, while human rights groups view the ICC proceedings as a long-overdue step towards accountability .

Vice President Sara Duterte, the former president’s daughter, has condemned her father’s arrest, labeling it as “oppression.” The political landscape is further complicated by her ongoing impeachment trial, which could potentially disqualify her from holding public office .

A Nation Watches and Waits

As the situation unfolds, the Philippines finds itself at a crossroads. The health of a former leader, the pursuit of justice, and the nation’s political future are all hanging in the balance. Senator Padilla’s impassioned plea serves as a stark reminder of the human dimensions underlying the legal and political drama.

The coming months promise to be pivotal. With Duterte’s health in question and legal proceedings advancing, the nation watches with bated breath, aware that the outcomes will shape the country’s trajectory for years to come.