The International Coalition for Human Rights in the Philippines (ICHRP) welcomed the denial of former President Rodrigo Duterte's bid for an interim release, saying the ruling is an affirmation for drug war victims.

On 10 October, the International Criminal Court (ICC) has denied Duterte's request for temporary release, ruling that his daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte's public threat "to break him out" and his recent election as Davao City mayor show he still wields the power and influence to flee or obstruct justice.

The decision comes after Duterte’s camp requested his interim release citing health concerns.

“We welcome this as a decision that upholds the safety, rights and wishes of the victims who have faced the terror of Duterte’s Presidency,” Patricia Lisson, ICHRP vice chairperson, said.

“This ruling is an affirmation of the victims' assertion that Duterte is a threat to their rights and must remain behind bars until his trial is seen through to completion,” Lisson added.

She added that the ICC pre-trial judges' decision "casts further doubt on the validity of the previous claims of Duterte's camp that he is unfit for trial," citing health concerns.

“There should be assurance made to the victims and their families that the case moves forward swiftly until there is justice."

The ICC has previously charged Duterte with “crimes against humanity" in September. The charges include murders for which he has responsibility between 2013 to 2016 during his time as Mayor in Davao City, as well as murders during his time as President, including the killing of 14 so-called “high-value” targets from 2016 to 2017, as well as 43 murders during “clearance” operations between 2016 to 2018.