ICC Trial Chamber Begins First Status Conference for Ex-President Duterte's Crimes Against Humanity Case

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has commenced its first status conference for the case against former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte on charges of 'crimes against humanity.' The Chamber emphasized efficiency and fairness, urging cooperation from the prosecution, defense, victims' representatives, and the registry.

Wed May 27 2026

ICC Trial Chamber Emphasizes Efficiency and Fairness

The International Criminal Court (ICC) held its first status conference regarding charges of 'crimes against humanity' against former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte on May 27 (Manila time). The Chamber underscored the importance of efficiency and expeditious proceedings, citing the 2020 Independent Expert Review which highlighted the need to enhance the Court's overall performance, efficiency, and effectiveness. The Court stated that the primary objectives of a criminal trial are the acquittal of the innocent and the conviction of the guilty, while ensuring fair proceedings for both the prosecution and defense, and upholding the rights of the accused as stipulated in Article 67 of the Rome Statute.

Call for Cooperation Among Parties

The Chamber urged the prosecution, defense, victims' representatives, and the registry to cooperate to streamline the trial process. It specifically called for the proper use of agreed facts between parties and concise presentation of evidence to prevent unnecessary delays. Furthermore, requests for disclosure should first be discussed among the parties before seeking rulings from the judges. The defense counsel for Duterte requested sufficient time for preparation, proposing September 30 as the trial start date. The prosecution suggested November 30, while the victims' representatives proposed an earlier start in early September.