House Prosecution Challenges Sara Duterte’s Confidence
MANILA, Philippines — The House of Representatives prosecution team has openly challenged Vice President Sara Duterte to present clear evidence of her innocence if she truly believes she “had the numbers” to secure an acquittal in her impeachment trial.
During a recent news forum in Quezon City, spokesperson Atty. Antonio Bucoy emphasized the importance of proof, saying, “They say, ‘The VP, she has the numbers.’ Then, that’s it. If you have the numbers and you think you’ll be acquitted, then show your proof. Logically, if you know they’ll vote for you and you’re confident you’ll win, if that’s the case, prove it.” This statement underscores the demand for transparency and evidence in the proceedings.
Impeachment Trial: Calls for Transparency and Justice
Bucoy added that a full trial is necessary regardless of the verdict. “For us, there should be a trial. Even if you acquit her, as long as we get to show the people what our evidence is for all the crimes she committed. That’s what’s important to us. The people will judge you,” he said. This highlights the prosecution’s commitment to unveiling their case to the public and ensuring accountability.
Meanwhile, Vice President Duterte’s team has expressed confidence in their chances of winning the impeachment trial. They have filed an answer ad cautelam, seeking to dismiss the complaint on grounds they describe as “void ab initio,” or invalid from the start.
Senate’s Role and Possible Motions in the Trial
Senate President Francis Escudero recently noted that the Senate, acting as the impeachment court, could dismiss the case against Duterte if a motion is filed and passes by a simple majority of at least 13 votes. This procedural insight informs the strategic considerations of both sides.
When asked about the possibility of the House prosecution filing a motion to inhibit senator-judges who have expressed support for the vice president, Bucoy responded, “It’s possible.” However, he also mentioned a growing sentiment against pursuing such motions to avoid diverting the focus and complicating the numbers game in the Senate vote.
Progress and Next Steps in the Impeachment Process
The Senate convened as an impeachment court on June 10, returning the articles of impeachment to the House for verification that they did not breach the “one-year bar rule” and confirming that the 20th Congress would continue the case. Despite procedural checks, the impeachment court has issued a writ of summons for Duterte to respond formally to the complaint.
Last Friday, the House prosecution submitted its response to Duterte’s motion, asserting that her grounds for dismissal are baseless and urging the court to proceed with the trial without delay. This demonstrates the prosecution’s resolve to push forward and hold the vice president accountable through due process.
For more news and updates on the impeachment trial, visit Filipinokami.com.