The International Criminal Court (ICC) has taken a significant step forward in the case against former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte. A status conference has been scheduled for May 27, marking progress in the ICC’s investigation into Duterte’s controversial war on drugs.
According to a report by Gulf News, the status conference will serve as a planning session where judges and lawyers will discuss the scope of the case, evidence, and potential trial dates. The ICC has requested submissions from all parties involved by May 15 to facilitate the preparation process.
ICC’s Preparations
The ICC has outlined several critical areas to address before the trial can proceed:
- Scope of Evidence: The prosecution has been asked to detail the number of witnesses, the duration of their testimonies, and whether expert witnesses will be involved. The court also seeks clarity on the volume of documentary evidence to be presented.
- Witness Protection: Measures to ensure the safety of witnesses, such as anonymity and redaction of sensitive details, are under review.
- Language and Interpretation: The court is assessing language requirements for the trial, including interpretation needs for witnesses and legal teams.
- Defence Strategy: The defence must disclose its plans and identify any legal issues that could delay the trial.
Duterte’s Detention Under Review
The ICC has also requested updates on Duterte’s detention, which has been upheld multiple times since September 2025. Both parties have until May 8 to submit observations on whether his continued detention is justified or if conditions for release should be considered.
Defence Challenges Charges
Duterte’s legal team is actively appealing the charges, arguing that the ICC’s approach to defining the charges was overly broad. They claim that the court failed to fully examine key defence arguments and relied too heavily on the prosecution’s case.
What’s Next?
The ICC will review all submissions in May, with the status conference on May 27 expected to provide a clearer timeline for the trial. Key decisions, including Duterte’s detention status and the defence’s appeal, may also be addressed during this session.
This development signals the ICC’s commitment to advancing the case, bringing it closer to a full trial framework.