The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued detailed procedural rules and timelines for the upcoming trial of former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte on crimes against humanity charges, setting out key pretrial requirements ahead of proceedings scheduled for November 30, 2026.

In a 23-page decision dated June 19, 2026, the court’s Trial Chamber (TC) set out “directions for the conduct of proceedings,” citing model guidelines used in previous ICC trials and submissions from both the prosecution and defense, as well as the Registry.

The chamber said unresolved procedural issues may be addressed during trial or raised earlier by either party during status conferences if intervention is required.

It also clarified that it will not regulate witness questioning in advance, saying objections will be assessed “on a case-by-case basis” in line with court rules and regulations governing fair trial procedures.

Under the schedule, the reading of charges—mandated under Article 64(8)(a) of the Rome Statute—will take place at the opening of the trial on Nov. 30, 2026.

The prosecution is required to submit by Aug. 31, 2026, a detailed trial brief along with a list of witnesses and all proposed evidence to be presented in court.

The filing requirements are intended to streamline proceedings and ensure both sides have adequate time to prepare for what is expected to be a closely watched international trial.

Duterte faces allegations of crimes against humanity linked to his administration’s anti-drug campaign, a policy that drew widespread domestic and international scrutiny.

The ICC is overseeing the proceedings under its mandate to prosecute grave international offenses.