The International Criminal Court (ICC) has approved requests from both the defense and prosecution to submit additional evidence ahead of the confirmation of charges hearing against former President Rodrigo Duterte over his controversial war on drugs.
In a February 20, 2026 decision, Pre-Trial Chamber I granted the defense’s second request to add items to its list of evidence, along with the prosecution’s bid to include 14 more pieces.
Earlier, on February 10, the Chamber had already permitted both sides to expand their evidence lists. Duterte’s camp later sought to add 108 items, noting prosecutors confirmed the move would not cause prejudice.
The prosecution then asked to admit 14 additional items, with no objection from the defense.
“Noting the limited extent of the requested additions, the nature of the material concerned and its relevance to the charges brought against the suspect, as well as the absence of objection from the parties and participants… the Chamber considers that there is good cause to grant such requests without causing undue prejudice to either party,” the ICC stated.
Both sides were directed to submit updated evidence lists by February 20, 2026, at 16:00.
In a separate ruling, the ICC earlier granted Duterte’s request to waive his right to personally attend next week’s confirmation of charges hearing, which centers on allegations tied to his anti-drug campaign.