Rodrigo Duterte’s ICC trial to start on November 30

MANILA, Philippines – The International Criminal Court (ICC) Trial Chamber III scheduled the start of former Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte’s trial on November 30, 2026. 

“The trial will run on a daily basis until [we] reached judicial recess,” said Presiding Judge Joanna Korner during the first status conference on Wednesday, May 27.

“This date was set by the Chamber following a Status Conference on this matter and other issues related to the preparation of the trial. The Chamber noted the respective submissions by the Prosecution, the Defense and the Legal Representatives of Victims, as well as the necessary time for the disclosure of evidence and other materials,” said the ICC.

Duterte is facing three counts of crimes against humanity due to his alleged involvement in the killings under his war on drugs and Davao Death Squad. He has been detained since March 2025.

The ICC Pre-Trial Chamber I confirmed all of his charges in April, bringing the case to trial stage.

Unlike all hearings so far, where he has been absent, Duterte is mandated to appear at November’s trials physically. – Rappler.com