ICC sets second status conference in Duterte crimes against humanity case

The International Criminal Court (ICC) Trial Chamber III has set the agenda for the second status conference regarding former President Rodrigo Duterte's crimes against humanity case.

According to a 4-page document dated June 18, the parties are expected to discuss the following:

• Deadlines for the filing of observations on the Expert Panel Report
• Adoption of a Protocol on handling confidential information
• Page limit of the Prosecution’s Trial Brief
• Dates for next status conferences after the judicial recess
• Public statements made by counsel

The Chamber said the conference will be from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, June 23.

“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,” it said.

According to the Chamber, the prosecution submitted its suggested items for the status conference upon its invitation.

Meanwhile, Duterte’s team and the Registry indicated that they had no item to suggest.

The first status conference was held on May 27, where the Chamber set the opening of Duterte’s trial for crimes against humanity over alleged killings during his time as President and Davao City mayor on November 30, 2026.

The Chamber also ordered a re-examination of Duterte’s fitness to stand trial.

It is expected to hold another status conference on July 14, Tuesday. –NB, GMA News