The International Criminal Court has rejected a bid from former President Rodrigo Duterte’s defense team seeking additional information on prosecution witnesses in his crimes against humanity case.
In a six-page ruling dated February 20, Pre-Trial Chamber I said disclosing witness details — including willingness to testify — could endanger victims and violate privacy protections under the Rome Statute.
“Contrary to what the defense implies… the right to a public trial and the principle of publicity of the proceedings does not equate to an absolute right for the public to know all the details of a case or for the defense to present its arguments fully in public session, to the detriment of the integrity of the proceedings and the safety of those involved,” the chamber said.
Judges noted that even if some case information is publicly available in the Philippines, releasing further details could put witnesses and their families at risk.
Prosecutors argued that lifting redactions in documents — including three counts of murder against Duterte — would compromise witness security, a point upheld by the court.
The ICC clarified that redactions do not prevent the defense from challenging evidence during hearings and reminded lawyers to maintain professional secrecy.
Duterte remains detained at the ICC Detention Center in The Hague, with his confirmation of charges hearing scheduled for February 23.