House impeachment spokesperson to keep dual roles despite Senate President's advice

House impeachment legal spokesperson and counsel to the panel of prosecutors, Benjamin Tolosa, Jr. has stated his intention to continue holding both roles, despite advice from Senate President Chiz Escudero, who presides over the impeachment court. Tolosa said he will retain both his positions for the duration of the Vice President's impeachment trial. Escudero had advised the House prosecution panel and the defense panel to appoint an individual who would solely act as their respective spokesperson. "Well, first of all, we appreciate the reminder of the presiding officer, and he stated that it seems that both spokespersons, myself and Atty. Poa are being careful so far," Tolosa said in a press conference. He added that Atty. Tongol, the impeachment court spokesperson, said Escudero's remarks were not an admonition but merely a reminder. Tolosa emphasized that he has been careful not to violate the sub judice rule, which prohibits commentary on ongoing legal cases. He explained that moving forward, as they have been doing from the start, they will ensure all their statements do not violate the subjudice rule and fall under the exemption of "fair and accurate reporting." When asked if he would relinquish his appointment as the prosecution panel's legal spokesperson and as a private prosecutor, Tolosa replied, "Well, for now, that decision has not yet been reached."