Two Philippine organizations providing support to families affected by the war on drugs have expressed their opposition to the interim release of former President Rodrigo Duterte from the International Criminal Court (ICC) custody.

Duterte is currently facing charges of crimes against humanity at the ICC due to his administration's drug war. Despite being in ICC custody, his legal team has requested his release to an undisclosed location.

According to the Coalition Against Trafficking in Women – Asia Pacific (CATW-AP) Executive Director Jean Enriquez, the Pre-Trial Chamber 1 had previously issued an arrest warrant for Duterte, deeming his arrest necessary to ensure his appearance in court. The chamber also noted Duterte's continued influence and power.

SENTRO Secretary General Josua Mata echoed these sentiments, highlighting Duterte's recent election as mayor of Davao City, where the alleged crimes under ICC investigation took place. Mata also mentioned the impeachment complaint against Duterte's daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte, which was ultimately returned to the House of Representatives by a majority of senators.

CATW-AP and SENTRO believe that Duterte's release could disrupt the ongoing court proceedings and pose a threat to the safety of witnesses and victims. They argue that the family's continued influence raises concerns among the affected parties.

In their defense, Duterte's legal team claimed that he is not a flight risk and cited humanitarian reasons for his release, pointing out his advanced age of 80 years.