LAWYER Nicholas Kaufman, legal counsel for former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, called on the Filipino public to “respect the judicial process” concerning his client’s case before the International Criminal Court (ICC).
Kaufman also addressed recent allegations of witness intimidation and judicial interference, firmly denying them and vowing to investigate claims of sponsored witnesses.
In a statement when asked about his message to the Filipino people regarding the ICC proceedings on Monday, June 30, 2025, Kaufman emphasized, “Respect the judicial process. A lot of gossip, a lot of allegations have been made, especially by people like Attorney Kristina Conti, that the supporters of former president Duterte are threatening witnesses, trolling judges. That is simply not true. Just respect the judicial process.”
Kaufman’s remarks come amidst heightened scrutiny and public discourse surrounding the ICC’s jurisdiction over Duterte, who is currently detained in The Hague on charges of crimes against humanity.
Atty. Kristina Conti, who represents some of the victims in the drug war, has previously voiced concerns about potential interference with witnesses should Duterte be granted interim release.
Responding to reports that the Department of Justice (DOJ) might be “sponsoring” witnesses to testify against the former president at The Hague, Kaufman expressed a need for further inquiry.
“Sponsoring witnesses to collaborate? Or encouraging witnesses to cooperate? I don’t know,” he said.
He further added, “Will investigate that matter and if it’s true, we will cross-examine those witnesses in court and these allegations will be put to them.”
The ICC’s pre-trial chamber is currently handling the case against the former president, with a confirmation of charges hearing provisionally scheduled for Sept. 23, 2025.
The legal proceedings continue to draw significant attention both in the Philippines and internationally.
