The criminal case for grave threats faced by Vice President Sara Duterte will not affect her ongoing impeachment trial before the Senate, House prosecutor and Bicol Saro Party-list Rep. Terry Ridon said Monday.
In a Dos Por Dos interview, Ridon clarified that the impeachment proceedings and the separate criminal case can proceed simultaneously, stressing that they are distinct legal processes with different objectives and consequences.
“Wala naman epekto ngayon ‘yung arrest warrant on grave threats. Magkaibang kaso naman ang grave threats sa impeachment at sa criminal trial ng ating Pangalawang Pangulo,” Ridon said.
He explained that the impeachment case seeks to determine whether Duterte should be removed from office, while the criminal case could result in imprisonment if she is found guilty.
“Sa impeachment po pagkakatanggal lang sa pwesto pero ‘pag kasong kriminal ay pagkakakulong po,” he noted.
Ridon also questioned what he described as the Philippine National Police’s (PNP) perceived “special treatment” of the Vice President, particularly the absence of the standard booking and mugshot procedures typically conducted after an arrest.
He cited the recent experience of Senator Rodante Marcoleta, who underwent standard booking procedures despite appearing in court, and called on the PNP to explain the apparent inconsistency to ensure that the law is applied equally.
Meanwhile, Ridon said the House prosecution panel has largely completed its presentation of evidence in the impeachment trial and is now awaiting the defense’s response.
He noted that some delays have occurred due to the health issues of witnesses, but said the panel would address these as the proceedings continue.
