ICC sets November 30 opening for Duterte crimes against humanity trial

Floyd Brenz., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
October 31, 2026

Photo Courtesy: Reuters

The International Criminal Court is set to open the trial of former Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte on November 30, marking the start of the proceedings over allegations of crimes against humanity linked to his administration’s anti-drug campaign.

The opening session will begin at 10 a.m. in The Hague, Netherlands, or 5 p.m. Philippine time, according to the ICC’s October 30 advisory.

Duterte will face three counts involving alleged murders and attempted murders committed in the Philippines between November 2011 and March 2019. These cover alleged killings in Davao City during his mayoral years, the targeting of so-called high-value individuals during his presidency, and deaths linked to anti-drug operations across the country.

At the opening, judges will first establish whether Duterte understands the charges and ask him to enter a plea. The court will then hear the prosecution’s opening statement, followed by presentations from the legal representatives of victims. The defense may also deliver an opening statement if it chooses.

The prosecution has been allotted six hours for its opening presentation, while the victims’ legal representatives have been given three hours. The first prosecution witness is expected to testify after the opening statements.

The trial will be handled by Trial Chamber III, led by Presiding Judge Joanna Korner, alongside Judges Keebong Paek and Nicolas Guillou.

The ICC said the hearings will be livestreamed through its official website, Facebook accounts and YouTube channel, with a 30-minute delay.

Duterte was transferred to ICC custody in March 2025. In April 2026, the court’s Pre-Trial Chamber confirmed all three counts of crimes against humanity brought by prosecutors and committed the case to trial. In October, Trial Chamber III ruled that he was fit to stand trial following an assessment by independent medical experts.

The charges remain allegations, and Duterte is presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt. The trial will give the prosecution an opportunity to present its evidence, while the defense will have the chance to challenge the accusations and present its case.