Manila: House of Representatives prosecution panel adviser and spokesperson Robert Ace Barbers urged the Senate, acting as the Impeachment Court in Vice President Sara Duterte's trial, to address the dissemination of misleading content allegedly coming from senator-judges.

According to Philippines News Agency, Barbers emphasized in a radio interview the Senate's duty to uphold the integrity and impartiality of the impeachment proceedings. His call to action followed the circulation of a Facebook post under Senator Pia Cayetano's account, which the prosecution claims included a "spliced" video misrepresenting an exchange during the trial.

The prosecution alleged the altered video falsely portrayed them as conducting a "fishing expedition" when seeking subpoenas for the Vice President's financial records. Despite condemning the video's spread, Barbers expressed confidence that the public witnessed the true proceedings, although he questioned the senator-judges' integrity.

Barbers highlighted the necessity for the Senate as an impeachment court to preserve its credibility by addressing the issue of manipulated content dissemination. He urged the senator-judges to rectify the situation, as the public is aware of the actual events that transpired.

In efforts to counter misinformation, the House prosecution panel is actively searching for an additional lawyer with litigation experience. This move aims to assist in explaining the impeachment proceedings as the current legal spokesperson, Benjamin 'Jay' Tolosa Jr., prepares to present witnesses.

Tolosa revealed that the search began prior to concerns about his dual role as both a courtroom and communications figure. The panel seeks another legal professional to help elucidate courtroom developments for the public without compromising the trial's integrity.

Tolosa underscored the importance of combating misinformation and disinformation campaigns surrounding the trial. The prosecution team is committed to maintaining public understanding of the courtroom's technicalities and disputes.

Tolosa also pledged greater caution after a reminder from the impeachment court spokesperson to observe the sub judice rule. However, the prosecution has not yet finalized a candidate to share the legal spokesperson's responsibilities when Tolosa presents witnesses.

Efforts to identify suitable candidates are ongoing, as the panel continues to prioritize transparent and accurate communication of the trial proceedings to the public.