MANILA, Philippines — The removal of the bribery article from Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment case could trim trial days, with the defense panel expected to cut its initial list of 30 witnesses, Sen. Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan said.
In an interview with DWIZ radio, Pangilinan said a shorter witness list could speed up the defense’s presentation, though the impact would depend on how it presents its evidence.
“At least on record, the defense had said it had 30 witnesses. So that number will be reduced, and if that happens, the trial days will also be reduced,” he said.
Pangilinan said the prosecution is expected to rest its case next week after presenting its remaining witness, lawyer Alexander Cabrera.
Cabrera earlier testified that Vice President Duterte and her husband, lawyer Manases “Mans” Carpio, had about P817.87 million in allegedly undeclared assets and income from 2022 to 2025, based on his examination of financial, tax, banking and corporate records.
The defense is expected to begin presenting its witnesses and evidence after the prosecution rests its case.
Pangilinan said that the impeachment court’s decision whether to convict or acquit Duterte, should be based on the evidence presented by both sides.
“What should be the basis for any decision, whether acquittal or conviction? Where is the evidence?” he said.
Pangilinan said he would apply the same scrutiny to the defense’s evidence, emphasizing that he was not taking sides in the proceedings.
“I have no side here. What I want is for the evidence to come out,” the senator said.
