LOOK: Duterte's signed request to skip first status conference on drug war raps

Former President Rodrigo Duterte has formally waived his right to be present at the first status conference of his alleged crimes against humanity charges scheduled on May 27, 2026 before the International Criminal Court (ICC).

Peter Haynes, Duterte’s legal counsel, submitted the 81-year-old Duterte’s signed waiver to the ICC Trial Chamber III on Monday, May 25.

“I, Rodrigo Roa Duterte, respectfully waive my right to appear before the Trial Chamber on 27 May 2026 at 9:30 and, consequently instruct my lawyers to address the procedural matters listed on the status conference agenda, and any other matter that may be discussed during the hearing,” read the one-page signed waiver dated May 25.

Earlier, the ICC Trial Chamber III granted the defense’s request for Duterte to skip the first status conference and gave them until Monday to submit Duterte’s signed request.

During the status conference, the parties will discuss the commencement date of the trial and deadlines leading up to the trial, anticipated evidence, agreed facts, and the languages to be used.

“The status conference will be public. However, in order to avoid disclosure of sensitive information regarding witness protection and security issues, the Chamber may order the use of private sessions,” the Trial Chamber III said.

On April 23, the ICC Pre-Trial Chamber I confirmed the charges of crimes against humanity against Duterte in connection with the killings in his war on drugs when he was mayor of Davao City and later as President. — JMA, GMA News