LIVE: ICC tackles schedule, evidence in Duterte’s case before trial

The status conference will cover discussions on trial dates, anticipated evidence, and the languages to be used by the parties

MANILA, Philippines – The International Criminal Court (ICC) Trial Chamber III will hold a status conference on former president Rodrigo Duterte’s crimes against humanity case on Wednesday, May 27, weeks after the pre-trial chamber confirmed Duterte’s cases.

A status conference is where parties discuss matters related to the case before proceeding to a full trial. The agenda includes:

• start date of the trial and deadlines leading up to trial
• anticipated evidence (use of expert witnesses, audio-visual link for witness testimony, etc.)
• languages to be used by parties, participants, and the witnesses.

Duterte will be absent because he waived his right to appear at the initial hearing.

ICC assistant to counsel Kristina Conti said these conferences are done to ensure that the trial will go smoothly. “There will be at least two [conferences], but probably more in our case,” she said.

Watch the livestream at 3:30 pm (Philippine time). – Rappler.com