ICC Pre-Trial Chamber I to rule on Duterte case within 60 days

Philippine Canadian Inquirer
March 1, 2026

(Photo courtesy: International Criminal Court)

THE HAGUE, The Netherlands — Presiding Judge Iulia Motoc adjourned the fourth and final confirmation of charges hearing of ex-Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte’s crime against humanity case at 3 p.m. local time (10 p.m. Manila Time) on Friday, February 27.

The Pre-Trial Chamber I, consisting of Judge Motoc, Judge Reine Adélaïde Sophie Alapini-Gansou, and Judge María del Socorro Flores Liera, will decide the ruling on the Duterte case within 60 days, or until April 28, 2026.

The honorable judges will have three distinct options upon issuing their decision: they can either confirm the charges, decline to confirm the charges, or adjourn the hearing, prompting the prosecution to gather more evidence.

Should the pre-trial court confirm the charges against Duterte, he will then be referred to as “the accused”, followed by a full-blown trial wherein his guilt will be tested.