New Names Expected in Vice President Sara Duterte's Impeachment Trial

New names, 'Chippy McDonald' and 'Miggy Mango,' are expected to be raised during the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte as the Senate impeachment court continues to tackle Article I of the complaint. House Deputy Majority Leader and La Union Rep. Francisco Paolo Ortega V disclosed this, stating that these names might surface following discussions involving 'Mary Grace Piattos.' "We cannot deny that Mary Grace Piattos is the most famous, but Chippy McDonald and Miggy Mango may also come up," Ortega told Super Radyo dzBB on Sunday. He added that the prosecutors have strategies and are sure these names will be discussed. The impeachment trial is currently addressing Article I of the complaint, which accuses Duterte of committing impeachable offenses through the alleged systematic misappropriation and irregular liquidation of P500 million in confidential funds released to the Office of the Vice President (OVP) and P112.5 million to the Department of Education (DepEd) during her tenure as Education secretary. Ortega emphasized that if there had been complete documentation, due diligence, proper intent, and correct liquidation procedures, the situation might not have escalated. He stressed the importance of determining where the money truly went and if any individuals received it. Earlier this week, the House prosecution panel announced its plan to seek a subpoena for Mary Grace Piattos to compel her appearance at Duterte’s impeachment trial. According to acknowledgment receipts submitted by the OVP to the Commission on Audit (COA), Mary Grace Piattos was listed as a recipient of the OVP’s 2022 confidential funds, purportedly receiving P70,000. Meanwhile, Ortega urged Duterte to substantiate her claim of 'bending of the law' in her impeachment trial. "She needs to prove her statement because the proceedings went through the proper process. Everyone saw the hearings of the Committee on Justice," he said. Duterte had alleged on Friday that the impeachment proceedings were already complicated by the 'bending of the law.' Ortega, however, believes the questions asked during the trial have been balanced and fair, expressing respect for both the prosecution and defense panels, as well as the impeachment court. "We can argue, debate, and exchange ideas as long as there is mutual respect. Regardless of whether there are allegations of bias, what is important is that the truth still comes out," he concluded. Source: GMA News Philippines