Manila: The House prosecution panel has decided to drop Edward Fajarda, the former Department of Education (DepEd) special disbursing officer, as a witness in Vice President Sara Duterte's impeachment trial. This decision comes after doctors recommended that Fajarda needs another 30 days to recover from a stroke.
According to Philippines News Agency, private prosecutor Rey Robles announced to the Senate impeachment court that the prosecution would no longer seek Fajarda's testimony due to his medical condition. This decision was supported by a medical assessment confirmed by Senate doctors. As a result, presiding officer Francis 'Chiz' Escudero ordered the recall of the subpoena previously issued to Fajarda.
Escudero detailed that Fajarda's legal counsel submitted a letter along with a medical certificate, confirming the need for an extended recovery period. The Senate's Medical and Dental Bureau corroborated the medical certification. Fajarda was initially expected to testify about the handling and turnover of confidential funds and acknowledgment receipts related to Duterte's alleged irregular use and liquidation of such funds during her tenure as DepEd secretary from 2022 to 2024.
Following the withdrawal of Fajarda's testimony, House lead prosecutor Rep. Gerville Luistro of Batangas requested that the court proceed with the presentation of other witnesses. Police Maj. Jovelyn Magay, lawyer Sunshine Fajarda, and Commission on Audit employee Bresildo Sabaldan are slated to testify next.
Robert Ace Barbers, House prosecution panel adviser and spokesperson, noted that Fajarda might still be called to testify in the future, either by the senator-judges or Duterte's defense team. His testimony is considered potentially significant in addressing allegations of misuse and misappropriation of confidential funds.
The prosecution aims to complete Article I of the impeachment trial this week before deciding whether to advance with the bribery allegation or move directly to the unexplained wealth charge against Duterte.
