Former Philippine President Duterte Appears in Person at ICC Status Conference

On September 16, former Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte attended the International Criminal Court’s third status conference for his crimes‑against‑humanity case, marking the first time he appeared in person since his March 11, 2025 arrest. The hearing, held in The Hague, reviewed the case’s progress and set the stage for the upcoming trial, scheduled to begin on November 30, 2026. Duterte’s presence underscored the ICC’s commitment to proceeding with the case despite political pressures. The conference confirmed that the court will continue to gather evidence and prepare for the trial, while the Philippine government maintains that the proceedings are politically motivated. The event also highlighted the ICC’s role in addressing alleged abuses during Duterte’s presidency, particularly the controversial war on drugs.