MANILA – Former President Rodrigo Duterte appeared in public Wednesday for the first time in more than 18 months since his detention by the International Criminal Court (ICC) in March last year.

Duterte, dressed in a black suit and white shirt, attended the third status conference of ICC Trial Chamber III on the crimes against humanity charges stemming from his campaign against illegal drugs in the Philippines.

Presiding Judge Joanna Korner acknowledged Duterte’s presence at the opening of the proceedings, noting that he could leave the courtroom at any time without seeking permission.

“This is the first time that Mr. Duterte has been in this court. As far as the trial chamber is concerned, if he wishes to leave for any reason, he may do so, Mr. Haynes, without permission being sought,” she said, addressing Duterte’s lead counsel Peter Haynes.

The status conference also focused on the prosecution’s planned presentation of evidence and witnesses.

Korner asked the prosecution to consider reducing its number of witnesses and the 15,000 items of evidence it currently intends to present, citing the need to “conclude the case as quickly as possible.”

ICC Senior Trial Lawyer Julian Nicholls said the prosecution currently seeks 193 hours to present its case based on its witness list but “will look for all opportunities to streamline” the proceedings.

Nicholls said the prosecution is also looking to present data sets on the “bottom number” of suspects killed during police operations related to the war on drugs.

The trial chamber is expected to resolve these matters during the next status conference.

Korner said the chamber intends to hold the trial from Nov. 30 until the Christmas break, before resuming proceedings in January through March. (PNA)