Impeachment court to keep 'respondent-accused' in records

MANILA, Philippines – The Senate impeachment court will retain in its records the term “respondent-accused,” which Vice President Sara Duterte’s lawyers have used when referring to her during the trial. This clarification was made by Presiding Officer Francis Escudero following a question raised by House prosecutor and Akbayan party-list Rep. Chel Diokno regarding the use of the term “accused.” Diokno had questioned the use of the term “accused,” emphasizing the importance of clearly defining the respondent’s status early in the trial. The defense team for the Vice President, however, maintained that the term was appropriate and respected the Vice President’s rights while proceeding with the legal process. The decision to keep the term in the records could spark further discussion on the precise language used in impeachment proceedings and its potential impact on the proceedings and the rights of the accused. Information Source: Inquirer NewsInfo