The ICC prosecutor is set to disclose additional evidence against former President Duterte, including materials related to seven witnesses, beyond the 181 items already shared with his defense team.
These new pieces of evidence, which remain confidential, are expected to be presented at the confirmation of charges hearing in September.
The ICC Pre-Trial Chamber granted an extension for the prosecutor to disclose evidence related to the arrest warrant, though the new deadline remains unclear.
Despite criticism, ICC spokesperson Fadi El Abdallah reiterated that the tribunal is focused on ensuring justice and uncovering the truth, maintaining jurisdiction over crimes committed while the Philippines was a member of the Rome Statute.
Meanwhile, one of the lawyers representing Duterte’s victims criticized the legal efforts to force his return, arguing they were an “exercise in futility” as the ICC’s authority must be respected.
Source: PhilNews24 | March 27, 2025
