Manila: Lanao del Sur Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong announced that the House prosecution team and its private lawyers are fully prepared to engage with the Senate impeachment court's procedures as the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Z. Duterte advances to its next phase.
According to Philippines News Agency, Adiong, serving as the spokesperson for the House prosecution panel, stated during a televised interview that the Senate has already established a timeline that both parties are expected to adhere to following the chamber's assembly as an impeachment court on Monday. He emphasized the importance of complying with the summons and the writ of summons, unless significant changes occur.
The process is poised to commence with the issuance of summons to Duterte, followed by the submission of answers, replies, and other preparatory measures preceding the trial's main proceedings. Adiong projected that the actual trial might begin around June.
Adiong expressed confidence that the evidence presented to the public and the Senate impeachment court will be assessed based on the strength of official records, potentially leading to a favorable outcome. The impeachment case against Duterte encompasses allegations of confidential funds, unexplained wealth, alleged bribery, and grave threats, all of which the prosecution intends to present before the senator-judges.
Private prosecutors are also involved in the preparation, although Adiong refrained from disclosing their identities prior to the formal proceedings. He affirmed the readiness of the House prosecution panel to follow the impeachment court's process and to present its case when required.
Adiong noted that the upcoming stages will determine how the evidence is examined and tested, but the prosecution is prepared to move forward under the Senate's established rules.
In addition, Adiong mentioned the possibility of conducting regular press briefings during the impeachment trial to facilitate public understanding of the proceedings and prevent confusion over legal matters presented before the Senate impeachment court. He acknowledged the likelihood of extended trial days, intense public scrutiny, and persistent inquiries from media and citizens.
While the exact format of these briefings remains under discussion, Adiong personally advocates for them, given the significant political and constitutional implications of the impeachment trial. He emphasized the necessity of clear communication, allowing media representatives to convey essential information and pose pertinent questions for thorough discussions and clarified public information.
Formal briefings would also enable reporters to obtain accurate information from the prosecution side, minimizing multiple interpretations of courtroom developments.
