ICC Moves Closer to Duterte Trial with Status Conference

May 2, 2026

69 min

May 2, 2026 10:31

How close is the Duterte case to trial? ICC schedules first status conference

## ICC Schedules Status Conference

The International Criminal Court (ICC) is advancing the case against former Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte by scheduling a status conference for May 27. This meeting aims to outline the trial's framework, including evidence and witness details, and determine a potential trial date.

## Submissions Required by May 15

The court has requested submissions from all parties by May 15 to aid in trial preparation. These submissions should cover the number of witnesses, duration of testimonies, use of expert witnesses, and any agreements on facts to streamline the trial process.

## Evidence and Witness Protection

The ICC is focusing on how evidence will be shared and the safety of witnesses. Measures such as identity protection and delayed disclosure are being considered. The court is also reviewing whether any witness names have been withheld from the defense.

## Defense and Detention Review

Duterte's defense team is challenging the charges, arguing that the court's approach was too broad. Meanwhile, the ICC is reviewing Duterte's detention, with submissions on this matter due by May 8. His detention has been upheld multiple times since September 2025.

## Next Steps

The ICC will review all submissions in May, with the status conference providing further clarity on the trial's timeline and Duterte's detention status. The case remains in the preparatory phase, but the court is actively working towards a full trial setup.

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