House Prosecutor and Manila 3rd District Representative Joel Chua said the prosecution’s plan to call Vice President Sara Duterte as a witness was already covered by a reservation in its pre-trial brief.
Chua made the statement during the House prosecution panel’s press conference on Wednesday, September 9, as he explained that the prosecution believes Duterte herself should answer the allegations raised against her in the impeachment trial.
“Walang pinakamagandang testigo dito at dapat magpaliwanag dito kundi ang Bise Presidente mismo," he said.
According to Chua, hearing directly from Duterte would allow not only the senator-judges but also the Filipino people to hear her responses to the allegations under each article of impeachment.
However, when asked whether Duterte could be compelled to appear, Chua said the prosecution respects her constitutional rights, including her right to invoke any applicable protections.
Despite this, he maintained that Duterte’s appearance would provide an opportunity for her to personally address the allegations.
“Kung wala naman siyang kasalanan, eto na rin yung tamang venue para malinaw niya, maipaliwanag niya ang kanyang punto at maipresenta niya sa taong-bayan, punto per punto ang kanilang mga sagot sa bawat alegasyon na binabato sa kanya," the lawmaker stated.
Chua said the prosecution would respect whatever decision Duterte ultimately makes regarding whether to testify before the impeachment court.
