‘Don’t traumatize witness vs Duterte’

MANILA, Philippines — Lawyers representing drug war victims have asked the International Criminal Court (ICC) to limit a witness’ time in court to “safeguard their psychological well-being.”

In former president Rodrigo Duterte’s crimes against humanity case, common legal representatives of the victims are supporting the prosecution’s request to admit witness P-1303’s prior recorded testimony.

P-1303 would testify on a drug-related killing, details of which were redacted.

“The time she is required to spend in court should be kept to a minimum, consistent with the requirements of a fair and equitable trial,” lawyers said.

“Reducing the number of times she is required to recall and relive these memories in the courtroom would help to significantly mitigate the psychological impact of giving testimony,” they added.

Introducing her prior recorded statement would reduce the duration of her oral testimony, they maintained.

If approved, the witness will still be presented for supplementary examination and cross-examination by the defense.

Lawyers Gilbert Andres, Joel Butuyan and Paolina Massidda signed the filing.