No ‘surprise’ witnesses, but ‘reserved’ ones may testify in VP Duterte impeachment trial
The House prosecution team in the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte clarified that they will not use 'surprise' witnesses, though they may utilize 'reserved' witnesses for security reasons. Legal spokesperson Benjamin Tolosa Jr. noted that the identities of these reserved witnesses will be disclosed to the defense at least three days before they testify, in accordance with trial rules.
Why it matters
This clarification sets the procedural expectations for a high-stakes political trial, ensuring transparency while addressing safety concerns for potential witnesses involved in the impeachment proceedings.
Tolosa: No ‘surprise’ witnesses, but ‘reserved’ ones may testify in VP Duterte impeachment trial Nation Tolosa: No ‘surprise’ witnesses, but ‘reserved’ ones may testify in VP Duterte impeachment trial by Thea Divina 23 June 2026 Watch Video File photo via Dos Por Dos House prosecution team legal spokesperson Benjamin Tolosa Jr. said the panel in the impeachment case against Vice President Sara Duterte may present "reserved" witnesses during the trial, citing rules that allow delayed disclosure for justified reasons. In an interview on DZRH's "Dos Por Dos," Tolosa clarified that the prosecution does not intend to use "surprise witnesses," but may designate certain individuals as "reserved" witnesses.
The article reports on procedural statements from a legal spokesperson without injecting editorial commentary or taking a side in the impeachment process.
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