The head of the House prosecution team on Monday introduced lawyer Benjamin S. Tolosa Jr. as a new member of the panel and its legal spokesperson, as pre-trial proceedings continue in the impeachment case against Vice President Sara Duterte.

Batangas Rep. Gerville Luistro, the prosecution chief, said Tolosa will both communicate developments in the case and actively participate in the trial as one of the private prosecutors.

“He will be speaking on behalf of the prosecution team, particularly with respect to developments in the proceedings of the impeachment trial,” Luistro said during a press conference.

Luistro clarified that Tolosa’s role goes beyond being a spokesperson, noting that he will formally enter his appearance as part of the prosecution team and take part in courtroom proceedings.

The prosecution panel is currently engaged in pre-trial conferences, including the marking of exhibits, which are being facilitated by private prosecutors under the supervision and control of the House prosecutors, Luistro said.

Tolosa, a litigation lawyer and managing partner of a private law firm, said he views his involvement as an opportunity to contribute to a key constitutional process.

“The impeachment is a pivotal constitutional proceeding. In fact, it’s one of the most important accountability mechanisms for public officials under the Constitution,” Tolosa said.

“As a trial lawyer, I found it to be a meaningful opportunity to place my experience in the service of that process,” he added.

He said he will help provide timely updates to the public, especially as he will be present inside the courtroom, while designated lawmakers will remain the primary spokespersons of the prosecution.

The impeachment trial is scheduled to begin on July 6, 2026, after the completion of pre-trial activities.