Context Dispatch

The International Criminal Court in The Hague on Monday opened confirmation of charges proceedings against former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, a crucial step that will determine whether there is sufficient evidence to send the case to full trial. Prosecutors, defense lawyers, and legal representatives of the victims are set to present their evidence and arguments before ICC judges, who have up to 60 days to decide if the case will move forward. The 80-year-old Duterte was arrested in March last year and has remained in detention while awaiting the court’s ruling on whether he will stand trial. Outside the ICC chamber, protesters from the families of the victims and those who support Duterte gathered to voice the opinions.

The intelligence division of the Bureau of Customs (BOC) has implemented a minor reshuffle following corruption allegations involving one of its officers.

Vice President Sara Duterte on Wednesday declared she will run for president in 2028, ending months of speculation about her political future.

Japan formally handed over coastal radar systems to Philippines on Tuesday, marking the country’s first-ever project under Japan’s Official Security Assistance (OSA) program.

At the annual board meeting of the US-Philippines Society on Tuesday, Ambassador ENDO Kazuya underscored the growing role of non-government actors in promoting peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.