MANILA — Prosecutors in the impeachment trial of Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte said on Thursday they would streamline their presentation of evidence after deciding not to call two previously identified witnesses, arguing that testimony they had planned to offer had become unnecessary in light of evidence already before the Senate impeachment court.
Speaking at a press conference following the latest trial proceedings, private prosecutor Lorna Kapunan said the prosecution would no longer present Office of the Vice President chief of staff Zuleika Lopez and House security official Capt. Belinda Bello as witnesses.
Kapunan said prosecutors had initially intended to question Lopez about the authenticity of video footage from a virtual press conference. However, she said the defense's use of the same material during the proceedings effectively acknowledged its authenticity, reducing the need for additional testimony on that issue. She also said documentary evidence already presented by National Bureau of Investigation officials, together with questions raised by senator-judges during the hearings, made further testimony from the two witnesses unnecessary.
The impeachment trial, which opened earlier this month, is examining multiple articles of impeachment approved by the House of Representatives against Duterte, including allegations involving the misuse of confidential funds, unexplained wealth, bribery, corruption and threats against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and other senior officials. Duterte has denied wrongdoing and has described the proceedings as politically motivated.
The prosecution has repeatedly argued that the Senate, sitting as an impeachment court, is determining whether Duterte remains fit to hold public office rather than deciding criminal liability. House prosecutors reiterated that position during recent public briefings as they continued presenting evidence before the court.
The Senate impeachment court has continued hearing witnesses and considering documentary evidence under the articles of impeachment. Prosecutors have previously said they intended to present dozens of witnesses but have maintained that they would adjust their witness list if testimony became redundant or unnecessary in light of developments during the trial.
The defense has continued to contest the allegations and challenge the prosecution's evidence during cross-examination. Under the Philippine Constitution, conviction in an impeachment trial requires the votes of two-thirds of the Senate. Proceedings are scheduled to continue as the prosecution advances its case before the impeachment court.
