Senator and presiding officer Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero clarified on Monday that the sub judice principle remains applicable to all Articles of Impeachment against Vice President Sara Duterte, including those previously withdrawn by the prosecution.
During the 40th day of the impeachment trial on November 9 following a three-week break, Escudero addressed the rule’s application. Under Rule 18 of the impeachment trial rules, covered individuals are prohibited from making public statements or commentaries on matters currently under the court’s consideration.
Initially, the court ruled that Rule 18 would no longer apply to Articles 1, 2, and 4 after the prosecution dropped them. However, defense lawyer Atty. Sheila Sison objected, and Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan filed a motion for reconsideration.
Following a November 4 manifestation where Vice President Duterte asserted she had not waived Rule 18, the court issued an order on November 5 keeping the restriction active across all articles.
“In view of the Respondent’s November 4, 2026 manifestation on her non-waiver of Rule 18, the Court acting on the appeal of Senator Judge Pangilinan issued an order dated November 5, 2026, resolving the sub judice principle under Rule 18 of the Rules of Procedure on Impeachment Trials shall continue to apply with equal force to all articles of impeachment, whether withdrawn or pending adjudication,“ Escudero said.
Escudero reminded both legal teams to adhere strictly to the restriction and avoid public commentary.
“And reiterating the August 26, 2026 ruling of the Court enjoining all covered persons to refrain from issuing public statements or commentaries in violation of Section of Rule 18, rather,” he added.
Prior to the three-week recess, the prosecution withdrew three of the original charges, leaving only the article concerning unexplained wealth active for adjudication.