Manila: The House prosecution announced on Monday that the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Z. Duterte has transitioned to a critical stage, concentrating on her suitability to continue serving as the Philippines' second-highest official. This shift follows the establishment of key evidence by the prosecution.

According to Philippines News Agency, the trial is set to present National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Regional Director Jeremy Lotoc as the second witness under the fourth Article of Impeachment. This article charges Duterte with making grave threats against President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and former Speaker Martin Romualdez during an online press conference on November 23, 2024. During this conference, Duterte allegedly stated she had hired someone to kill them if she were to be harmed.

Former Representative Robert Ace Barbers, serving as the House prosecution spokesperson and adviser, emphasized that impeachment proceedings differ from criminal trials. The focus is on assessing whether a public official should remain in office rather than imposing criminal penalties. "This process, this impeachment process, walang kulong, kundi 'yung pagtatanggal lamang sa opisina. Kasi ang malaking tanong: ikaw ba ay karapat-dapat na manilbihan o manungkulan bilang pangalawang Pangulo after nakita natin itong mga ebidensyang inilatag na ito," Barbers explained.

Lotoc is poised to testify on the NBI's investigation into Duterte's remarks and the subsequent filing of criminal complaints. This testimony is part of the prosecution's effort to present evidence before the Senate impeachment court. Deputy Speaker Paolo Ortega V of La Union highlighted that the prosecution would maintain its strategy, relying on robust evidence rather than external distractions. "Ang spoiler lang kasi na pwede kong ibigay, eh magiging consistent lagi ang prosecution panel," Ortega stated, emphasizing the panel's consistency and preparedness in presenting evidence throughout the proceedings.