Victims’ lawyers ask ICC to limit questioning of traumatized witness in Duterte trial

Philippine Canadian Inquirer
November 11, 2026

Photo Courtesy: ICC

Lawyers representing victims of former president Rodrigo Duterte’s war on drugs have asked the International Criminal Court (ICC) to limit the time spent questioning a witness who could experience severe psychological distress from recounting a traumatic incident.

In a filing made public on November 10, the Common Legal Representatives of Victims supported the prosecution’s request to admit previously recorded testimonies from three witnesses identified as P-0008, P-1303 and P-1164.

However, they specifically urged the court to minimize the questioning of witness P-1303, a parent whose testimony involves the death of an individual whose identity remains confidential.

The lawyers said the witness experiences severe distress whenever she is asked to recall the incident. Repeatedly recounting the experience in court could further affect her psychological well-being.

They argued that limiting the number of times she has to revisit those memories would help protect her while still allowing the defense to examine her testimony.

The victims’ representatives cited Article 68 of the Rome Statute, which requires the ICC to protect the safety, dignity, privacy and physical and psychological well-being of victims and witnesses.

The request does not seek to remove the defense’s right to question the witness. Instead, it aims to balance the accused’s right to challenge evidence with safeguards for a vulnerable witness.

Trial Chamber III, led by Presiding Judge Joanna Korner, has yet to rule on the prosecution’s pending requests to admit previously recorded testimonies.

Duterte’s trial over crimes against humanity charges linked to his administration’s anti-drug campaign is scheduled to begin on November 30.