The International Criminal Court (ICC) has established the procedural guidelines that will govern the upcoming trial of former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, set to commence on November 30, 2026.
In a 23-page directive released by Trial Chamber III, the court detailed the specific timelines and rules regarding witness examinations, evidentiary presentations, and protective measures.
The judges confirmed that the charges against Duterte will be formally presented when the trial officially opens.
“Article 64(8)(a) of the Statute mandates that the charges, as previously confirmed by the Pre-Trial Chamber, are read to the Accused. The Chamber announces that this will be done at the commencement of the trial, on 30 November 2026.”
Per the issued timeline, the prosecution is required to submit its comprehensive trial brief, a definitive witness list, and all intended evidence by August 31. This filing must outline the core facts of the case, legal arguments, and specify whether any expert witnesses will be called.
Following this, the legal representatives of the victims have until September 28 to submit their respective briefs. The defense team for Duterte must file its response by October 30, highlighting the key legal and factual matters they intend to dispute.
During the opening statements, the prosecution will be given six hours to speak first. The victims’ legal representatives will follow with a three-hour time slot, after which the defense will present its opening statements.
The tribunal also adopted protocols for handling physical and digital evidence, alongside guidelines for holding private or closed-door sessions to protect vulnerable witnesses. Under normal circumstances, however, witness testimonies are to be conducted publicly.
The procedural order arrived ahead of a secondary status conference scheduled for June 23, where further timeline adjustments and management details will be finalized.
Duterte was taken into custody on March 11 and transferred to the detention facility in The Hague the following day, after Philippine authorities executed an ICC arrest warrant transmitted via an Interpol red notice.
He faces charges of crimes against humanity involving allegations of widespread killings connected to his administration’s anti-illegal drugs campaign during the period the Philippines was a state party to the Rome Statute.