Manila: The House of Representatives prosecution panel aims to complete its presentation of evidence by the end of September, in an effort to allow the Senate impeachment court to conclude Vice President Sara Z. Duterte's trial before December, stated House prosecutor and Bicol Saro Party-list Representative Terry Ridon.
According to Philippines News Agency, Ridon expressed support for Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian's hope to finalize the trial before December. However, Ridon emphasized that the proposed timeline should be seen as a target rather than a guarantee. He highlighted that the prosecution, defense, and the Vice President are all advocating for a speedy resolution to the trial.
Ridon remarked, "We share the same sentiment as the Senate President na hopefully matapos sa pinakamaagang panahon itong paglilitis (that the trial will be finished at the soonest possible time)." He further explained that the prosecution panel plans to conclude its evidence presentation by the end of next month, allowing the defense to begin their presentation in October, potentially until mid or late November.
Currently, the prosecution panel is presenting evidence regarding the alleged misuse of confidential funds. Witnesses from the Office of the Vice President, the Department of Education, the National Bureau of Investigation, and the Philippine Statistics Authority have been lined up to testify. Additionally, the prosecution will address articles related to bribery and unexplained wealth.
Ridon noted that inclement weather had already caused delays by canceling two hearing days that week. To counteract further delays, Ridon supported the suggestion that the impeachment court consider adding a fourth trial day each week or extending daily hearings.
He emphasized the importance of covering uncontested documents under stipulations to avoid unnecessary trial time on agreed matters. However, Ridon stressed that any schedule extensions must consider the workload and capacity of Senate personnel, as increased hours and additional days would require more preparation and support from the staff.
Ridon clarified that while the prosecution panel will not dictate the trial calendar, they will adhere to whatever arrangements are made by the impeachment court and Senate leadership in the coming weeks. The panel will manage its presentation by reviewing the evidence after each witness and deciding whether to move on to the next article.
"Barring another round of massive rainfall, hopefully wala ng (there will be no more) further delays," Ridon concluded.
