The impeachment trial for Vice President Sara Duterte saw a significant change on July 13, 2026, as the prosecution presented its second witness, National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Regional Director Jeremy Lotoc, without facing objections from the defense.
A Shift in Court Dynamics
This time, there were no interruptions as the prosecution proceeded with its witness presentation.
Isabelle Pechay, INQUIRER.net
Lotoc's testimony specifically addressed Article IV of the impeachment complaints, which accuses Duterte of violating the Constitution through alleged threats against Marcos, First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and former Speaker Martin Romualdez.
In contrast, during the previous session on July 7, the defense raised multiple objections against Calilung's testimony. Defense counsel Carlo Joaquin Narvasa questioned the relevance of Calilung’s statements and sought to exclude him from the proceedings.
Despite the objections, Calilung's testimony was ultimately allowed, showcasing the contentious nature of the trial. This shift in the defense's approach on July 13 could indicate a strategic change as the trial progresses.
The prosecution's uninterrupted presentation signaled a potential turning point in the trial dynamics, as they continued to build their case against the Vice President.