26-3-2025 (MANILA) The Philippine House of Representatives has authorised an extensive international journey for Davao City’s First District Representative Paolo Duterte, encompassing 16 sovereign nations and Hong Kong SAR.
The timing of this wide-ranging personal sojourn, scheduled from 20 March to 10 May, has drawn particular attention as it coincides with significant legal proceedings involving the parliamentarian’s father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, at the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Netherlands.
The elder Duterte, who is presently held at the Scheveningen detention facility, faces grave charges of murder as a crime against humanity, stemming from his administration’s controversial anti-narcotics campaign and alleged involvement in the Davao Death Squad killings.
The approved itinerary spans four continents, including major European capitals such as London, Paris, and Berlin, alongside Asian financial hubs Singapore and Hong Kong. The comprehensive travel schedule also encompasses visits to regional neighbours Indonesia, Malaysia, and Vietnam, as well as global powers like the United States and China.
Earlier this month, the younger Duterte had sought a more limited travel clearance for The Netherlands and Japan, following his father’s apprehension and subsequent transfer to The Hague on 11 March. The former president made his initial ICC appearance via video link on 14 March.
The family’s presence in The Netherlands has become notably pronounced, with Vice President Sara Duterte currently in the country, and their sister Veronica planning to visit The Hague. This familial convergence comes amidst crucial legal deadlines, with ICC prosecutors required to present their evidence by 4 April, and the defence team given until 11 April to outline their strategy.
