Prosecution urges impeachment court to scrutinize VP’s remarks over sub judice rule

The House prosecution panel in Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment trial has urged the Senate impeachment court to review her public criticisms of the proceedings for potential sub judice violations, emphasizing that legal standards must apply equally to all parties.

Speaking at a media briefing, prosecution spokesperson and Kabataan Party-list Rep. Renee Co argued that Duterte’s claims of the court “bending the law” risk eroding public trust in the trial and should be evaluated alongside statements made by participating lawyers.

“Ultimately, if there is someone the impeachment court should call attention to, it is VP Sara,” Co said.

The remarks stem from an August 6 statement in which Duterte claimed she saw no reason to disrupt the proceedings, calling the trial chaotic and accusing the tribunal of violating legal norms. Co questioned why the Vice President voiced her grievances publicly instead of addressing the court directly.

“She said what is happening in the Senate impeachment court amounts to ‘bending the law.’ Why didn’t she appear and air her grievances during the trial itself?” Co asked. “For us, the principle is clear: one court, one standard. If disrespecting the tribunal is prohibited, that rule must apply to everyone.”

Prosecution legal spokesman Benjamin Tolosa Jr. echoed the sentiment, insisting that sub judice restrictions should be enforced without exception.

“If we are looking at who might be violating the sub judice rule, let’s not forget that the Vice President herself falls within its scope,” Tolosa noted.

The prosecution’s call follows a declaration by Senate President and Presiding Officer Francis Escudero that the tribunal is reviewing public comments from both the prosecution and defense teams to determine if any violations occurred.

Escudero indicated that the court is expected to issue a formal ruling on the matter when proceedings resume on Monday. The decision could result in reprimands or further disciplinary action for statements made outside the courtroom.

-Paraluman News