The International Criminal Court (ICC) has called on the media to report accurately and fairly on the case involving former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, stressing the importance of avoiding speculation and misinformation as proceedings continue.
During the second status conference on Tuesday, ICC Chamber III Presiding Judge Joanna Korner reminded journalists and the public that court proceedings must be reported with precision, particularly given the heightened public interest in the case.
“First thing we wish to emphasize is the need for media to report to the public accurately and fairly what is said in court and above all to avoid speculations,” Korner said.
She noted that the case has generated significant attention in the Philippines and online platforms, which has also led to the spread of what she described as “undoubtedly fake news.”
“This case has attracted not surprisingly a substantial amount of media interest in the Philippines in particular… and appears to have provoked supplies of what is undoubtedly fake news and obviously fake news,” she added.
Judge Korner underscored that accurate reporting is especially crucial due to the seriousness of the allegations involved.
“That is important in any trial, and it’s doubly important when it comes to a trial of serious allegations—nothing could be more serious than these criminal activities,” she said.
She also issued a strict reminder that statements made during private sessions of the court must not be disclosed publicly.
“Can I just issue a reminder to the media that anything that is said in private session may not be reported?” Korner stated.
The ICC judge further noted that some earlier media coverage had been influenced by public comments made by individuals involved in the proceedings, which she said did not assist the integrity of the case.
“Part of the reporting of the earlier proceedings was not assisted by comments made by previous defense counsel Atty. Nicholas Kaufman to the media,” she said.
The status conference forms part of the ICC’s ongoing pre-trial process in the case against Duterte, which has drawn international attention and widespread public debate.
Authorities continue to remind stakeholders and the public to respect court protocols as proceedings move forward.
