DEFENSE TEAM OF DUTERTE SEEKS TIGHTER ICC RULES ON EVIDENCE, WITNESSES

Former President Rodrigo Duterte’s defense team has asked the International Criminal Court to tighten procedural rules in his crimes against humanity case linked to the Philippines’ anti-drug campaign.

In submissions dated June 5, 2026, his counsel urged Trial Chamber III to limit unnecessary evidence, refine witness handling procedures, and strengthen disclosure requirements to keep the case record focused and manageable.

The defense argued for a balanced approach to evidence admission and submission, warning that the current framework—based on the Al-Rahman case—could overload proceedings and create uncertainty in the evaluation of proof.

It also sought clearer breakdowns of witness testimony, limits on the use of extensive documentary exhibits, and stricter rules on metadata and evidence tracking by the ICC Registry.

The request comes as the chamber finalizes trial procedures ahead of Duterte’s trial set for November 30, 2026, with judges also ordering a review of his fitness to stand trial.

Source: PhilNews24 | June 7, 2026