Will Sara Duterte take the stand? Lawyer says 'too early to tell'
Vice President Sara Duterte's defense team has begun presenting evidence in her impeachment trial, though it remains undecided if she will testify. The proceedings currently focus on allegations of unexplained wealth and asset declaration discrepancies.
Why it matters
The impeachment of a high-ranking official like the Vice President has significant implications for political stability and governance in the Philippines.
MANILA, Philippines - It is "too early to tell" whether Vice President Sara Duterte will attend her impeachment trial or take the witness stand, spokesperson Paolo Panelo said Monday, November 9.
The trial resumed Monday morning after a nearly monthlong recess, with Duterte's defense beginning its presentation of evidence.
Saying "it is only the first day," Panelo said no decision had been made on whether Duterte would appear at the proceedings.
Whether the vice president attends or takes the witness stand would be a personal decision made in consultation with her defense team, he added.
Asked about Duterte's November 6 to 8 trip to Hong Kong, her lawyers said he was unsure whether the vice president had already returned to the country.
Duterte remained confident that her defense team "will disprove the allegations against her."
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