Duterte makes ICC appearance as hearing adjourns

September 16, 2026

By ABOGADO.COM.PH Staff

Former President Rodrigo Duterte made his first in-person appearance before the International Criminal Court (ICC) on Wednesday as the third status conference in his crimes against humanity case was adjourned after tackling key preparations for his November trial.

Duterte, 81, remained silent during the proceedings but was seen sitting in the courtroom and waving to family members in the gallery.

The hearing dealt with the prosecution’s witnesses and evidence, continuing disclosure to the defense, possible additional incidents in the case, and the trial schedule, including proposed hearing blocks and breaks.

Presiding Judge Joanna Korner also pushed both sides to keep the trial as short and expeditious as possible by citing Duterte’s age and health and urging the parties to focus on key evidence and limit witnesses.

Meanwhile, the defense complained about the enormous volume of evidence it must review with lawyer Peter Haynes saying the material was difficult to examine within the timetable.

The ICC is still expected to resolve pending issues, including Duterte’s fitness and other pre-trial matters, before the scheduled Nov. 30 trial.#