FALSE. Former president Rodrigo Duterte will be released from the custody of the International Criminal Court (ICC) on his birthday, March 28, allegedly confirmed by his lawyer, Nicholas Kaufman.
FACT. There is no official statement from Duterte’s defense counsel confirming his release on March 28, and the ICC has not announced any decision ordering his release.
A YouTube video titled “Good news! FPRRD makaka-laya na! Sa kanyang birthday! Ngayong March 28 na! Kumpirmado ni Atty Kaufman” falsely claims that Duterte will be freed on his birthday based on statements allegedly made by his lawyer.
The video circulating online uses footage from the ICC confirmation of charges hearing held on February 23, 24, 26, and 27. However, none of Nicholas Kaufman’s statements during the hearing mention Duterte being released on March 28, contradicting the claim presented in the video.
As of March 2026, former president Rodrigo Duterte remains under the custody of the International Criminal Court in The Hague while judges deliberate on the next stage of the case.
The confirmation of charges hearing concluded on February 27, 2026, after prosecutors, victims’ representatives, and Duterte’s defense presented their arguments.
The ICC has yet to release any ruling regarding the confirmation of charges or possible developments in the proceedings.
Until an official decision is issued by the court, claims about Duterte’s release remain unsupported.
