In the theater of absurdity that is the defense of Rodrigo Duterte against ICC charges, it seems some key players are confusing the script. 

While the rest of us are waiting for the curtain to rise on a fair trial, former Duterte spokesperson Harry Roque and Senator Ronald “Bato” are already giving Oscar-worthy performances in presumption of guilt. It’s as if they’re rehearsing for a dystopian courtroom drama where the verdict is already written, and they’re just practicing their lines.

Roque’s preemptive doubts about Filipinos accepting their former president behind bars and Bato’s melodramatic fear of incarceration make one wonder if they’ve mistaken the courtroom for a psychic hotline. Last we checked, no convictions were handed down, no warrants issued, yet they seem to have a crystal ball that foretells an ominous future. 

Perhaps a crash course in legal basics is in order before they continue their over-the-top act of defending the indefensible.