ICC expands evidence list in Duterte trial

THE International Criminal Court (ICC) has allowed 80 more pieces of evidence in the case against former Philippine President Rodrigo R. Duterte, just 13 days before a key hearing to confirm charges of crimes against humanity.

The court’s decision on Feb. 10 lets Mr. Duterte’s defense add 78 items, while the prosecution can include two more. Both sides agreed not to block each other’s submissions, making the move smoother.

Mr. Duterte, 80, has been in ICC custody since March 2025. The Feb. 23 hearing will decide if there is enough evidence to proceed with a trial over alleged crimes during his war on drugs and his earlier time as mayor of Davao City.

Judges said the pieces of evidence are important for a fair process. Victims’ representatives also did not object to the additions. Both sides must submit their updated evidence lists by Feb. 13.

Nicholas Kaufman, Mr. Duterte’s lead lawyer, said the items are “essential” for the defense, noting that some evidence only became available after the prosecution released more than 1,200 documents from September 2025 to January 2026.

The court has already ruled that Mr. Duterte is fit to participate in the hearing, rejecting claims that he is cognitively unfit.

If the charges are confirmed, Mr. Duterte would become the first former head of state to face trial at the ICC for crimes committed in a domestic anti-drug campaign. — Erika Mae P. Sinaking