ICC prosecution asks for clarification on Duterte defense team’s members
The International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecution has requested clarification on the members of former President Rodrigo Duterte’s defense team, specifically the Filipino lawyers named during his confirmation of charges hearing, including prominent figures like Salvador Medialdea and Salvador Panelo.
The International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecution has formally requested the court's Pre-Trial Chamber to compel former President Rodrigo Duterte's defense team to clarify whether six Filipino lawyers are officially part of his legal representation. This request was initiated by ICC Deputy Prosecutor Mame Mandiaye Niang after Duterte's defense counsel made public statements introducing these lawyers during the confirmation of charges hearing, despite earlier assertions that they were not part of the defense team. The six lawyers in question include prominent figures Salvador Medialdea (former Executive Secretary), Salvador Panelo (former Presidential Spokesperson), Martin Delgra III, Silvestre Bello III, Alfredo Lim Jr., and Caesar Dulay.
The prosecution's request stems from inconsistencies between the defense counsel's initial denials and subsequent public statements. During the confirmation of charges hearing, lead counsel Kaufman stated that the Filipino lawyers had been "ably assisted and supported" the defense team, contradicting earlier positions. The prosecution sent an email on February 25, 2026 seeking clarification from the defense, but this request was declined, prompting the formal motion to the Pre-Trial Chamber.
Niang explained that establishing the formal status of these lawyers is necessary for conducting proper risk assessments and ensuring the safety and well-being of victims and witnesses involved in the case. The prosecution emphasized that the case is designated as confidential to the Defense, Prosecution, and Registry only under court regulations, making clarity about who has access to confidential information crucial for procedural integrity.
Duterte is currently facing three charges of crimes against humanity at the ICC related to his administration's violent anti-drug campaign, which resulted in at least 6,000 fatalities according to government figures, though human rights organizations estimate the death toll exceeds 30,000. The clarification request represents a procedural step in the ongoing proceedings, highlighting the ICC's attention to proper legal representation protocols and witness protection concerns in this high-profile case.
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