Sara Duterte's attendance at trial remains uncertain after Baste's subpoena; defense says it's up to her

The defense team of Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte said on Monday that it is up to her if she will attend the trial next week, following another subpoena issued by the Senate impeachment court to her brother, Davao City Mayor Sebastian "Baste" Duterte. "She hasn't said anything to me yet. When it comes to those kinds of matters, we don't really recommend her attendance. It's really up to her whether she wants to attend or not," said Michael Poa, spokesperson of Duterte's defense team, in a press briefing. The younger Duterte was initially scheduled to appear on Wednesday, September 23. However, the impeachment court will hold an oral argument on voting threshold on the said date. The Davao City mayor and two other individuals are called to appear on September 28 to 30. "As to the subpoena of Mayor Baste, I'm sure he has his own lawyers. I'm sure he is well updated on the matters. So, let's just wait and see what happens next week," Poa added. The Senate impeachment court is tackling Article 2, which alleges that the Vice President accumulated unexplained wealth. The House prosecution panel earlier said the Davao City mayor could speak about Gencorp Industries, Inc., a firm linked to his sister. Duterte's defense team reiterated that they have no say when it comes to her attendance. "When it comes to the Vice President's attendance to show support, whether for staff or for her brother, we don't interfere in those matters," said Poa.