The International Criminal Court has officially approved a request from former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte to skip the upcoming status conference scheduled for May 27. While the court granted his waiver to be absent, it notably denied his legal team’s motion to participate in the proceedings remotely. This hearing marks a significant transition for the defense, as Peter Haynes is set to make his first court appearance as Duterte’s new counsel. The session is intended to establish the trial timeline, including setting deadlines and determining the scope of evidence, such as the volume of witness testimony and documents to be presented.

Duterte, who faces three counts of crimes against humanity, remains in custody at The Hague following his initial arrest in Manila earlier this year. Despite his defense’s repeated attempts to challenge the court's jurisdiction and secure his release based on claims of declining health, the ICC has ruled that he is both mentally and physically fit to face trial. As the first former Asian head of state to face such proceedings, the court is currently finalizing preparations for a full trial while simultaneously pursuing his former police chief, Senator Ronald dela Rosa, as a co-perpetrator in the deadly anti-drug campaign.