Former President Rodrigo Duterte skipped the first status conference of his case before the International Criminal Court (ICC) on May 27, with his legal team confirming that he had formally requested to be excused from attending the proceedings.

During the hearing in The Hague, Presiding Judge Joanna Korner noted Duterte’s absence and sought clarification from the defense.

“Mr. Haynes, before you sit down, just so the public understands, I think that Mr. Duterte asked to be excused from the hearing,” Judge Korner said.

Defense counsel Peter Haynes confirmed the request.

“Indeed, that’s correct, Your Honor,” Haynes responded.

The court proceeded with the status conference despite Duterte’s non-attendance, focusing on procedural matters related to the case timeline and pre-trial preparations.

Duterte is facing proceedings before the ICC in connection with alleged crimes against humanity tied to his administration’s anti-drug campaign.

His legal team has previously indicated that his absence from certain hearings is permitted under court-approved arrangements.

The status conference marks an early procedural stage in the ICC process as the case moves toward further hearings and trial readiness discussions.