House prosecutors want sub judice rule applied to VP Duterte's remarks

MANILA, Philippines — The Senate impeachment court’s sub judice rule should also be applied to the recent statements of Vice President Sara Duterte, particularly her remarks assailing the integrity of the court. The House prosecution panel made this suggestion on Thursday. House prosecution spokesperson Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong made the pronouncement after confirming that two “We are suggesting that the sub judice rule should also be applied to the statements of the Vice President,” Adiong said. He said that the sub judice rule is a “rule of court that prohibits discussion of a case that is currently under trial.” “It is a rule that prevents prejudgment of the case by the public and the media, and it is intended to ensure that the court’s decision will be based solely on the evidence presented during the trial,” he added. Adiong said that the Vice President’s remarks were “uncalled for” and that they could “undermine the integrity of the impeachment court.” He added that the House prosecution panel is “confident that the Senate impeachment court will consider our suggestion and apply the sub judice rule to the statements of the Vice President.” Vice President Duterte has been critical of the impeachment proceedings against her, calling them “politically motivated” and “baseless.” She has also accused the House prosecution panel of engaging in a “witch hunt” and of trying to “destroy her reputation.” The impeachment proceedings against Vice President Duterte were initiated by the House of Representatives, which accused her of “culpable violation of the Constitution” and “betrayal of public trust.” The impeachment court is composed of all 24 senators, who will act as judges in the trial. The trial is expected to begin in the coming weeks.