Prosecution, defense clash over use of ‘accused’ in impeachment trial

MANILA, Philippines — Even before the awaited debates on the conviction threshold, the opposing parties in Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment trial on Wednesday got heated over the use of the word “accused” in referring to Duterte during the proceedings. The argument began after House prosecutor Chel Diokno sought clarification from the Senate impeachment court. Diokno argued that the term “accused” was appropriate given that the Vice President is undergoing impeachment proceedings. However, the defense strongly objected, asserting that the term could tarnish Duterte’s position and reputation. The clash over terminology highlighted the differing perspectives of the prosecution and defense on the fairness and legality of the proceedings, even before substantive debates on the impeachment threshold commenced. The impeachment trial of the Vice President remains a focal point of political attention in the Philippines. This dispute over the use of the word "accused" underscores the often contentious nature of political discourse in the country.