DAVAO CITY (MindaNews / 06 July 2026) – The Prosecution and Defense panels emphasized accountability in their opening statements on Monday, Day 1 of the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte. While the Prosecution focused on Duterte’s accountability, the Defense countered by questioning the Prosecution’s conduct.
Rep. Gerville Luistro, Lead Prosecution counsel, vowed to present concrete evidence—official records, financial documents, government reports, video recordings, and sworn statements—rather than hearsay or propaganda. She stressed impartiality, stating, “Mga dokumento na hindi bumoboto. Mga records na walang partido. Mga katotohanan na walang kulay pangpolitika.”
Lead Defense Counsel Sheila Sison asserted that the burden of proof lies solely with the Prosecution, requiring evidence that meets legal standards of admissibility, credibility, and relevance. Duterte, absent from the trial, was represented by counsel, maintaining that her choice did not imply evasion of accountability.
The Prosecution’s four Articles of Impeachment include alleged misuse of ₱612.5 million in confidential funds, unexplained wealth, procurement irregularities, and threats against President Marcos Jr. and others. Luistro framed the trial as a matter of public trust, emphasizing that ordinary Filipinos face accountability for smaller sums, questioning why high-ranking officials should be exempt.
Sison countered that Duterte was elected by over 32 million voters, a mandate exceeding even President Marcos Jr.’s votes, and warned against overturning the people’s will without irrefutable proof. She cited a 2025 Supreme Court ruling that nullified prior impeachment proceedings due to procedural abuse, stressing that justice requires fairness.
Both sides invoked constitutional principles. Luistro urged Senator-judges to rule based on evidence, not politics, declaring, “Salus populi est suprema lex” (The welfare of the people is the supreme law). Sison reiterated that impeachment, while political, must adhere to legal standards to prevent abuse of power.
The trial’s outcome, both agreed, would test the republic’s commitment to accountability and the rule of law. (Carolyn O. Arguillas / MindaNews)
