Camp of VP Sara Duterte says overruled objections are 'natural' in impeachment trial

Vice President Sara Duterte's legal team on Tuesday defended the numerous objections it raised during the second day of the impeachment trial, saying such challenges are a routine part of court proceedings even if many of them were overruled.

Speaking after the day's hearing, defense spokesperson Atty. Michael Poa said objections are expected during witness examinations and should not be interpreted as setbacks for either side.

“That is only natural. You will see in any litigation or trial proceeding, especially during the examination of witnesses, that objections will inevitably be raised by both sides,” Poa said.

Poa said the defense repeatedly objected because it believed prosecutors asked leading questions while examining National Bureau of Investigation Senior Agent John Mark Calilung, the prosecution's first witness who authenticated digital evidence presented before the impeachment court.

He added that whether the objections were sustained or overruled was less important than ensuring the defense's position was formally reflected in the trial record.

“It is only natural to have such objections, and naturally, we want to put our objections on record,” he said.

Poa also downplayed suggestions that the prosecution had gained an advantage after House prosecution spokesperson Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong described the numerous overruled objections as a victory for the prosecution.

The defense, he said, is not treating the proceedings as a running tally of victories and defeats, noting that the impeachment trial is still in its early stages.

“We do not view this in terms of wins or losses, as it is still too early for us to keep score in that manner,” Poa said.

-Paraluman News