In an International Criminal Court hearing in The Hague, Rodrigo Duterte's lawyer calls the politician's arrest in Manila 'pure and simple kidnapping.'

Former Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte has made his first appearance via video link at the International Criminal Court in the Netherlands, where he faces murder charges related to his “war on drugs.

Duterte, 79, appeared at the hearing via videolink, with presiding judge Iulia Motoc citing his prior “long journey."

By Stephanie van den Berg and Anthony Deutsch THE HAGUE - Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte did not attend his first court hearing at the International Criminal Court in The Hague on Friday,

Harry Roque, also a lawyer seeking to represent him in the ICC case, said the question of jurisdiction over the Philippines, which withdrew from the global court when Duterte was president, should be addressed before any further proceedings.

Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte appeared before the International Criminal Court on Friday for the first time since his arrest for alleged crimes against humanity committed during his deadly war on drugs.

The former leader of the Philippines has been charged with crimes against humanity after thousands of civilians were killed during his time in office.