The International Criminal Court has officially directed former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte to appear in person for a status conference set for September 7. Presiding Judge Joanna Korner issued this mandate after granting a final waiver for his absence during a recent June 23 hearing. The court made it clear that as the trial date nears, the strategy of skipping proceedings due to health concerns will no longer be tolerated, unless verified medical issues strictly prevent his attendance. By the time of the September session, the court expects to have received reports from a panel of experts tasked with evaluating the 81-year-old’s current physical and mental state.

Beyond the logistical requirements for the accused, Judge Korner took a firm stance regarding the conduct of legal counsel outside the courtroom. She explicitly warned both the defense and prosecution to avoid making public criticisms of the court’s decisions, specifically addressing inappropriate comments made by Duterte’s former lawyer. The judge emphasized that legal challenges must be addressed through formal court channels rather than the court of public opinion, reminding all parties that the trial process demands professional decorum. With the major trial scheduled to begin on November 30, these upcoming conferences in July, September, and October serve as critical steps in preparing for the substantive legal proceedings against the former president.