Tongol: Zuleika Lopez may have to explain if she ignores subpoena
Zuleika Lopez, chief of staff to the Philippine Vice President, faces potential contempt charges if she fails to comply with a subpoena for the impeachment trial of Sara Duterte. The trial involves allegations regarding threats against President Marcos Jr. and other officials.
Why it matters
The legal proceedings represent a critical moment in Philippine political stability and the separation of powers.
Impeachment court spokesperson Regie Tongol holds a press briefing on Friday, July 10, 2026. - Screengrab from Senate of the Philippines/YouTube MANILA, Philippines - Office of the Vice President (OVP) chief of staff and Undersecretary Zuleika Lopez could be ordered to explain why she should not be cited for contempt if she fails to comply with a Senate impeachment court subpoena requiring her to appear as a witness in Vice President Sara Duterte's impeachment trial, impeachment court spokesperson Atty. Regie Tongol said Friday.
"Like any other compulsory process, if someone fails to comply with the court, they can be ordered to explain why they should not be cited for contempt," Tongol told reporters.
Tongol made the remarks in a press briefing when asked what could possibly happen if Lopez fails to appear as directed.
READ: Zuleika Lopez among prosecution's next witnesses in impeachment trial
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