MANILA, March 15 -- Former president Rodrigo R. Duterte made his first appearance before the International Criminal Court (ICC) via a video link on Friday (Manila time), with the next hearing for confirmation of his charges set for Sept. 23.

ICC Pre-Trial Chamber I Presiding Judge Iulia Antoanella Motoc, speaking French, allowed Duterte to attend and follow the hearing virtually considering the "long journey involving a considerable time difference" that he made from the Philippines.

Duterte, wearing a blue blazer and tie, listened through headphones to hear the interpreter, and spoke in English to confirm his full name, and date and place of birth.

His legal counsel, his former executive secretary Salvador Medialdea, was present in th...