VP impeachment trial: Defense to cross-examine SEC witness

MANILA, Philippines — The impeachment trial of the Philippine Vice President enters its 28th day with defense lawyers set to cross-examine Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) witness Gerardo del Rosario, director of the SEC’s Company Registration and Monitoring Department. Del Rosario testified yesterday on businesses linked to Vice President Sara Duterte. The trial is focusing on aspects of transparency and legality in the Vice President's political position and business operations. The SEC's testimony is seen as a crucial element in clarifying the impact of the Vice President's business activities on her public office and the potential for conflicts of interest. In Philippine politics, impeachment trials of high officials are major events that draw national attention, and their outcomes can significantly influence the political landscape. The trial of a figure in such a crucial position as Vice President, in particular, concerns the public's trust in the nation's governance structure, thus strongly demanding fairness and transparency in legal proceedings. This cross-examination of the SEC official by the defense team aims to question the credibility of the evidence presented by the prosecution and to bolster the Vice President's side. The outcome of the legal battle between both parties is highly anticipated.