Initial Appearance Hearing: Rodrigo Roa Duterte

Introduction

• The hearing is taking place at the International Criminal Court (ICC).
• The case: Prosecutor vs Mr. Rodrigo Roa Duterte, Case Number ICC 0121 0125.
• The Chamber has allowed for video recordings and photographs.

Introduction of Parties

• Prosecution:
  • Karim Khan (Prosecutor)
  • Deputy Prosecutor Manjay Niang
  • Trial Lawyers: Edward Jeremy, Robin Croft
  • International Cooperation Advisor: Chantelle Daniels
  • Case Manager: Grace Goh
• Defence:
  • Salvador C. Medialdea (Counsel for Rodrigo Roa Duterte)
  • Mr. Duterte is attending via video link due to a long journey and time difference.

Introduction of the Chamber

• Presiding Judge: Yulia Antoinella Motok
• Vice President of the Court: Judge Rain Adelaide Sophie Alapini-Gansu
• Judge: Maria del Socorro Flores Liera

Confirmation of Identity

• Rodrigo Roa Duterte:
  • Full name confirmed.
  • Date of birth: March 28, 1945.
  • Place of birth: Leyte, Philippines.

Nature of Initial Appearance

• Purpose of the Hearing:
  • Not the start of the trial or confirmation of charges.
  • No evidence collection or presentation.
  • Focus on informing the accused of charges and rights, and setting a date for the confirmation of charges hearing.
• Reference to Article 61 of the Rome Statute and Rule 1211.

Charges Against Mr. Duterte

• Alleged crimes against humanity: murder.
• Details:
  • Murder of at least 19 persons (2011-2016) in Davao by the Davao death squad.
  • Murder of at least 24 persons (2016-2019) in the Philippines by law enforcement and others.

Rights as a Suspect

• Rights under the Rome Statute, including right to:
  • Interpreter and translations if necessary.
  • Prepare defense and communicate with counsel.
  • Remain silent and not testify against oneself.
  • Contest charges and challenge evidence.

Defence Counsel's Submission

• Counsel highlighted concerns over the manner of Mr. Duterte’s transfer to the ICC, referring to it as an "extrajudicial rendition" or "kidnapping."
• Expressed issues with preparation time and lack of access to legal documents and client.
• Request for postponement of substantive hearing was denied.

Health and Procedure Considerations

• Mr. Duterte's health condition considered in hearing arrangements.
• Counsel mentioned concerns over Mr. Duterte's ability to contribute due to health and preparation issues.

Next Steps and Dates

• Confirmation of charges hearing set for September 23, 2025.
• Prosecutor ordered to begin disclosure of evidence immediately, to be completed in the next seven days.
• Status conferences and decisions on evidence disclosure and victim participation to follow.

Conclusion

• The hearing concluded with formalities and thanks to participants.
• Commentary noted the procedural nature of the hearing and the setting of the next steps.