ICC Sets Trial Date for Former Philippine President Duterte

The International Criminal Court has set November 30, 2026, as the start date for the trial of former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, who faces three counts of crimes against humanity. The decision was announced by Presiding Judge Joanna Korner of Trial Chamber III following a status conference at the court in The Hague.

Duterte, 81, is charged with murder and attempted murder in connection with at least 76 killings. Prosecutors allege the crimes occurred both during his tenure as mayor of Davao City, from 2013 to 2016, and throughout his presidency, from 2016 to 2022, as part of his government's anti-drug campaign. Official estimates place the death toll of that campaign at over 6,000, while human rights groups have suggested the figure could be significantly higher.

Judge Korner stated the trial would proceed on a daily basis until a judicial recess, noting the court's duty to begin proceedings as soon as possible, in part due to Duterte's age and health. The prosecution had proposed the November start date to complete pre-trial disclosures, a timeline to which legal representatives for victims agreed. The defense had argued for more time to review evidence and requested...