ICC registry disputes Duterte camp’s claims of frequent falls

MANILA, Philippines — The International Criminal Court (ICC) registry disputed claims by former President Rodrigo Duterte’s defense team that he suffered “frequent” falls due to loss of balance.

The registry said these incidents are “rare” and consistent with his age and mobility.

READ: Inside Rodrigo Duterte’s ICC detention center

It made the statement in a public redacted document released May 20, where it confirmed that Duterte is currently under cell monitoring for health and safety reasons, particularly because he is “an elderly detained person, with increased fall risk due to age and several chronic physical ailments.”

The denial was issued in response to a May 8 filing involving the Duterte defense team’s observation on the former president’s detention, wherein they requested the registry to comment on his detention after citing “frequent” falls while in custody.

According to the registry, with Duterte under cell monitoring, ICC Detention Center (DC) custody staff observe Duterte round the clock and “respond to any need he may have,” while reducing response time in the event of any incident.

“On rare occasions where Mr. Duterte did have a fall, ICC DC custody staff were able to respond immediately to assist him, and immediately call for medical assessment,” the registry said.

“Following these rare events, adjustments have been made to his cell, to better accommodate his comfort and movement and are adjusted as needed,” it added.

The registry further noted how ergonomic adjustments were made in his cell to allow him a more free and stable movement.

The registry also addressed Duterte’s alleged loss of balance, which it said “are consistent with his age and mobility.”

It was citing the detention center’s medical officer.

It also noted that “no fall has been recorded in the last thirty days.”

The Registry also stressed that Duterte’s medical records are always available to his defense team, and that his continual medical care “remains assured and under constant attention.” /apl