Quezon City:The withdrawal of several witnesses in the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte may indicate a lack of support for the party that requested their appearance, According to lead prosecutor of the House prosecution panel.

According to Philippines News Agency, Batangas 2nd District Representative Gerville Luistro highlighted that the defense team began its case by retracting many witnesses initially subpoenaed by the Senate Impeachment Court. Among them was Dean Ralph Sarmiento, who declined to testify to maintain his independence and impartiality.

Luistro further noted that 18 out of 24 witnesses initially listed by the defense had been withdrawn, potentially creating a negative public perception. She explained that the public might interpret the withdrawal as a sign that the witnesses do not want to be associated with the defense's position.

The defense's decision to withdraw several witnesses was seen as diminishing the anticipated impact of its evidence against the prosecution's allegations. Luistro remarked that expectations for explosive testimonies were unmet, likening the situation to a disappointing firecracker.

Additionally, the barangay captain of Matina Crossing was not presented, and 15 out of 16 bank officials were withdrawn as witnesses. For the remaining BPI witness, the defense offered to stipulate rather than present them in court. Quezon City Prosecutor Vimar Barcellano, whose testimony was related to a dismissed case against Duterte, was also dropped following a stipulation.

Overall, the withdrawals represented three-quarters of the subpoena-listed witnesses, raising questions about the support for the defense's case.