Sara Duterte impeachment trial: Court to tackle Article IV, witness testimonies

The impeachment trial of Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte is set to continue discussing Article IV of the Articles of Impeachment, which charges her with “Assassination Plot, Grave Threats and Inciting to Sedition Against the President." This article alleges her involvement in a plot to assassinate President Marcos, making grave threats, and inciting sedition. On Day 9 of the trial, Duterte’s defense team will proceed with their cross-examination of NBI Director Melvin Matibag. The defense has requested to introduce new documents, including the statement of alleged DDS hitman Arturo Lascanas, a request that the court has approved, granting a continuance. Director Matibag is expected to defend the agency’s findings, asserting that a threat to President Marcos’ life constitutes a threat to national security. He has also characterized Duterte’s remarks not as mere threats but as a “confession.” Meanwhile, the House Prosecution Team is anticipated to formally close its presentation of evidence and witnesses for Article IV. Lead Prosecutor Gerville Luistro stated that Matibag will be the final witness for this article of impeachment. Previously, the prosecution panel had indicated they would not present six of their witnesses for Article 4, deeming Matibag’s testimony sufficient to prove the charges. The impeachment court has announced an adjusted schedule: there will be no trial on July 27 to accommodate President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA). Additionally, July 28 is set aside for the minority bloc senators to prepare and deliver their “Kontra-SONA.” The trial will resume on July 29 at 10 a.m. Starting in August, the impeachment trial will convene from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. every Monday to Wednesday.