The impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte resumed today in Manila, marking its 19th day. The Senate impeachment court will hear from prosecution counsel Amando Ligutan regarding recent public remarks that have drawn scrutiny.
Key Testimonies and Rulings
'KUNG AKO, I WILL RESIGN.' Senator-judge Raffy Tulfo challenges OVP Assistant Chief of Staff Lemuel Ortonio over his testimony, calling it illogical.
Raffy Tulfo, Senator-judge
Before the defense can continue cross-examination, Presiding Officer Francis 'Chiz' Escudero is expected to rule on accusations related to the prosecution's public comments. This comes after Ligutan's social media post stirred controversy.
The court has previously emphasized the importance of adhering to the sub judice rule, which prohibits public commentary on ongoing proceedings. Escudero announced a 'two-strike rule' for violations, with significant penalties.
In other developments, Ortonio confirmed that only Duterte and former security chief Col. Raymund Lachica were privy to the specifics of the confidential funds' usage, raising questions about accountability.
The impeachment proceedings highlight broader implications for governance and accountability within the Philippine political landscape, echoing past high-profile impeachments that tested the resilience of democratic institutions.