Senator Escudero suggests having impeachment spokespersons not part of defense, prosecution teams

Presiding Officer Francis “Chiz” Escudero has suggested that both the prosecution and defense panels designate separate spokespersons who are not part of their active legal teams for the Vice President's impeachment trial.

Escudero noted that the current spokespersons, Defense Counsel Michael Poa and House Prosecution Spokesperson Benjamin Tolosa Jr., are actively participating as lawyers in the case.

They are bound by court restrictions regarding public comments and disclosures.

He explained that appointing independent spokespersons would allow for freer communication with the public, as they would not be limited by the court's rules governing counsels and witnesses.

“As the trial goes on, it might take its toll with respect to the spokesperson and counsels at the same time being able to distinguish within the merits of the case and purely procedural observations or facts,” Escudero said.

Both camps have acknowledged the proposal.

For the Prosecution team, Lead Prosecutor Gerville Luistro stated that the panel will consult with Tolosa before making a team decision.

For the Defense team, Poa welcomed the suggestion but noted that any decision to appoint another spokesperson must be approved by Vice President Sara Duterte.

-Paraluman News