Duterte attends ICC status conference for the first time - GMA Network

Former President Rodrigo Duterte attended, for the first time this Wednesday, September 16, 2026, the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) status conference in his crimes against humanity case.

According to GMA stringer Andy Peñafuerte III, the former official was already seated when the judges arrived.

Unlike the previous two hearings, Duterte did not waive his appearance.

“This is the first time that Mr. Duterte has been in this court. As far as the trial chamber is concerned, if he wishes to leave for any reason, he may do so,” Presiding Judge Joanna Korner said.

The Trial Chamber will tackle the prosecution’s case, including its list of witnesses, number of hours to be given to the prosecution, list of evidence, disclosure to the defense, and additional incidents.

It will also discuss the sitting schedule of the trial from November 30 until the Spring Recess in 2027. Aside from this, the Chamber will discuss the Registry’s proposal to have blocks of hearings with breaks and sitting hours in light of the experts’ recommendations.

Duterte is facing charges for crimes against humanity over alleged killings during his time as President and Davao City mayor.

He was arrested in March 2025 at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3.

The former official is currently detained at the ICC Detention Centre in Scheveningen in The Hague, the Netherlands. —LDF, GMA News