Manila: House trial spokesperson Zia Alonto Adiong on Monday criticized the defense's strategy in the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, asserting that their focus on clerical errors and document discrepancies detracts from the core issue: the National Bureau of Investigation's (NBI) findings of prima facie evidence against Duterte. The NBI's evaluation, which led to the recommendation of three counts of grave threats and one count of inciting to sedition, forms the basis of the trial.

According to Philippines News Agency, Adiong addressed the press, emphasizing that the defense's attempt to shift the narrative from the substance of the testimony to the technicalities of certain documents is a diversion. He urged the public to focus on the sworn testimony, which has not changed despite the alleged document errors. Adiong highlighted that the defense is within their rights to question the documentation, but it should not affect the perception of the witness's unchanged testimony.

Adiong called for attention to the evidence, separating the importance of paperwork accuracy from the witness's testimony, recordings, and findings presented under oath. He stressed that these elements should be evaluated on their own merit and significance. He reminded that the impeachment proceedings should remain centered on constitutional issues rather than being sidetracked by document discrepancies that do not impact the evidence's substance.

Adiong concluded by urging the focus to remain on what the evidence and testimonies prove, rather than on typographical errors, as the Impeachment Court's judgment will hinge on the substance of the evidence presented.