Former Surigao del Norte representative Robert Ace Barbers has rejected claims that the impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte are politically motivated, urging the public to examine the evidence presented during the trial instead of believing misinformation circulating on social media.
In an interview on DZRH’s Isyung Pambayan, Barbers, an adviser to the House prosecution panel, maintained that the impeachment case should be assessed based on evidence rather than allegations of political persecution ahead of the 2028 presidential elections.
“Walang katotohanan na ito ay isang political persecution dahil malapit na raw ang 2028. Tingnan natin ang ebidensya and let the evidence speak,” Barbers said.
He also warned against the spread of fake news surrounding the proceedings, saying misleading information could influence public opinion and distort people’s understanding of the case.
“Ika nga, huwag tayong maniniwala sa fake news dahil sigurado, simula pa ng umpisan itong trial na ito, itong paglilitis na ito, ay nagkalat ang maraming pekeng news na kinukumbinsi o iniimpluwensyahan ang opinyon ng ating mga mamamayang Pilipino,” he said.
Barbers encouraged the public to watch the actual impeachment proceedings to better understand the evidence presented, rather than rely solely on information shared on social media.
“Mas magandang nanonood tayo ng sa ganoon ay maiwasan natin ang mga nakikita sa social media na kadalasan ay puro fake news,” he added.
The allegations against Duterte include questions concerning her declared wealth, financial transactions and compliance with the requirements for filing her Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth (SALN).
During the proceedings, the prosecution presented financial records and expert testimony to support its allegations involving the Vice President’s assets and financial activities.
Financial forensic expert Alexander Cabrera examined documents that included bank records, SALNs, Securities and Exchange Commission records and audited financial statements related to Duterte and her husband, Manases Carpio.
The prosecution cited Cabrera’s analysis in alleging that approximately ₱817.87 million in assets and income had not been properly declared between 2022 and 2025. The amount and the allegations remain subject to scrutiny, and the defense is entitled to challenge the evidence presented against the Vice President.
The prosecution has maintained that its case rests on documentary evidence and witness testimony, while Duterte’s camp has disputed the allegations and questioned the motives behind the impeachment proceedings.
