Prosecution forgoes plan to ask Sara Duterte to testify in own trial
The prosecution team in the impeachment trial of Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte has decided against calling her to the witness stand, stating that existing bank records and financial statements provide sufficient evidence. They aim to expedite the trial, having previously dropped a bribery case. The defense, however, maintains that it is their prerogative to call her if deemed necessary.
Why it matters
This development is a significant strategic move in a high-profile impeachment trial, potentially indicating the prosecution's confidence in its existing evidence. It could influence the trial's duration and outcome, with major political implications for the Philippines.
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HOSTILE. Private prosecutor Jay Tolosa questions hostile witness, Atty. Michael Poa, during Day 21 of the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte on September 2, 2026.
The prosecution team in the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte has decided not to call her as a witness, citing sufficient evidence from bank records and financial statements. Prosecutors believe the evidence presented is strong enough without her testimony, while the defense argues that it is their strategy to call her if needed. The prosecution is seeking Duterte's removal from office for various offenses, including betrayal of public trust and misuse of funds, but has dropped the bribery case to expedite the trial. This is AI-generated.
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