As the International Criminal Court (ICC) prepares for the trial of 81-year-old former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte regarding alleged crimes against humanity, the tribunal is actively refining its legal strategy. During a status conference held on Wednesday, Presiding Judge Joanna Korner instructed prosecutors to narrow the scope of their case by trimming the list of witnesses and the volume of evidence presented.

The court faces a complex set of logistical and procedural challenges. Beyond the health considerations of the former president, the ICC is attempting to insulate the trial from a volatile media landscape. Concerns regarding the spread of misinformation—often referred to as 'fake news'—have become a focal point for the court, as officials seek to maintain the integrity of the proceedings in a highly charged political environment. The court aims to balance the need for a comprehensive prosecution with the practical necessity of conducting an efficient trial that is not overwhelmed by excessive documentation or external influence.

While the prosecution continues to build its case, the court's recent directives suggest a shift toward prioritizing core evidence to ensure the trial remains focused on the central allegations. The ICC has not yet commented on how it intends to specifically police media narratives outside of the courtroom, but the emphasis on managing the information environment reflects the high level of public interest and the potential for polarized reporting surrounding the Duterte administration's legacy.