The International Criminal Court (ICC) Office of the Prosecutor has asked the court to formally admit the previously recorded testimonies, statements, transcripts and related materials of three witnesses in the crimes against humanity case against former president Rodrigo Duterte.
In a November 3 filing, the prosecution identified the witnesses as P-0019, P-1032, and P-1409 and sought permission to conduct a focused supplementary examination or viva voce testimony for each witness.
The prosecution said the request aims to expedite trial proceedings by reducing the estimated direct examination time for the three witnesses from nine hours to three hours, saving at least six hours of court time.
According to the filing, the testimonies are relevant to establishing the alleged activities of the Davao Death Squad (DDS), including its targeting of suspected criminals, extrajudicial killings, and the alleged atmosphere of fear and impunity in Davao City.
The prosecution also cited portions of the witnesses' accounts concerning Duterte's alleged knowledge and involvement in the killings, including the alleged issuance of orders and financial incentives to perpetrators.
Under the request, each witness would undergo approximately one hour of supplementary examination to clarify specific aspects of their previously recorded statements.
The prosecution maintained that admitting the testimonies would not prejudice Duterte's rights, stressing that the defense would still have the opportunity to cross-examine the witnesses, who would also be available for questioning by the Chamber and other parties.
The application was filed pursuant to Rule 68(3) of the ICC Rules of Procedure and Evidence, which allows the introduction of previously recorded testimony under certain conditions.
The ICC has yet to rule on the prosecution's request.
