Overview
- The four-day hearing runs February 23–27, with a written decision due within 60 days on whether to advance the case.
- Prosecutors charge three counts of the crime against humanity of murder tied to Duterte’s presidency and earlier Davao mayoralty, alleging involvement in 76 killings from 2013 to 2018.
- Duterte will not attend after waiving his right to appear, with judges having found him fit to participate as his legal team represents him.
- The ICC maintains jurisdiction over alleged crimes in the Philippines from 2011 to March 16, 2019 despite the country’s 2019 withdrawal, a position the defense has appealed.
- Duterte’s family says no in-person visits are approved during the hearings, as rights groups call the process a critical step and press for strong witness protections.