Prosecutors ask ICC to examine docs linking Rodrigo Duterte to DDS

MANILA, Philippines – International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutors have asked Trial Chamber III to examine documents submitted by a witness that may link former President Rodrigo Duterte to the Davao Death Squad or DDS.

According to the document made public Monday, Acting Prosecutor Mame Mandiaye Niang filed a request on August 31 seeking permission for the witness, identified as “P-1100,” to submit a statement instead of testifying in person.

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The prosecution cited Rule 68 of the ICC Rules of Procedure and Evidence, which allows parties to invoke prior recorded testimony before a witness’s scheduled testimony. However, such submissions remain subject to cross-examination and questioning by the Trial Chamber.

“The Prior Recorded Testimony of P-1100… is particularly relevant to the policy to ‘neutralise’ through violent crimes, including murder, alleged criminals in the Philippines,” Niang wrote.

He continued: “It also provides evidence of the Davao Death Squad’s modus operandi as well as [Duterte’s] criminal responsibility, including in relation to his knowledge and intent.”

Primarily, the prosecution reasoned that the request is to expedite Duterte’s proceedings, “having the health of [Duterte] in mind.”

Niang also wrote that, should the request be granted, the length of the witness’ direct examination would be reduced from seven hours to two hours.

Duterte is facing two counts of murder as crimes against humanity, and one count of attempted murder and murder as a crime against humanity for his supposed role in the drug war as president of the Philippines and as Davao City mayor.

His trial is scheduled to commence on Nov. 30, 2026. /jpv