Sara Duterte impeachment trial: Witness to testify on 'unexplained wealth' allegation

The impeachment trial against Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte enters its 25th day with the House prosecution panel set to present a new witness on Tuesday. Atty. Karen Batu, officer-in-charge of the Records Division of the Office of the Ombudsman, will take the stand to testify on Article 2 of the impeachment case, which alleges that the Vice President accumulated unexplained wealth. Batu will undergo direct and cross-examinations by the prosecution and defense teams, respectively, and will also face questions from the senator-judges. Should her testimony conclude within the day, Atty. Gerardo Del Rosario, director of the Company Registration and Monitoring Department of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), is slated to be called as the next prosecution witness. Article 2 of the Articles of Impeachment specifically details the alleged means through which the Vice President accumulated unexplained wealth. This testimony is crucial as it pertains to the public official's accountability regarding her assets. Asset disclosure for public officials is a cornerstone of accountability and anti-corruption efforts in the Philippines. Impeachment proceedings like this are viewed as essential for maintaining public trust. The Vice President's impeachment trial continues to be a significant development in Philippine politics. Source: GMA News Philippines