Duterte consumes Coke Zero while detained in The Hague

Former President Rodrigo Duterte is currently in detention in The Hague due to allegations of crimes against humanity related to his war on drugs. His daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte, recently shared some updates about his condition while speaking to supporters. According to Vice President Duterte, her father has a strong craving for Coke Zero. He is diabetic but has his blood sugar under control, thanks to nursing staff who monitor his health. She mentioned that she only left him four cans, one for each day, but he wants more: “Why is my Coke Zero only once a day?” he reportedly asked. Despite concerns about Coke Zero’s health effects, the Vice President plans to provide him with an “unlimited supply.” She noted that while it doesn’t contain sugar, it has sugar substitutes that could be harmful. Duterte responded that he would deal with any future health issues as they arise. As he approaches his 80th birthday on March 28, Duterte faces serious legal challenges. He was taken into custody on March 11, following an order from the International Criminal Court. While his administration’s drug war officially recorded around 6,000 deaths, other estimates suggest the number could be much higher. Duterte's pretrial hearing occurred on March 14, with a confirmation of charges set for September 23. His daughter has acknowledged that he will likely not return to the Philippines. For now, she is focused on keeping him comfortable and helping him adjust to life in detention.