Private prosecutor Atty. Benjamin “Jay” Tolosa Jr. stated he is prepared to address any contempt motion filed by Vice President Sara Duterte’s defense team regarding his public remarks on the ongoing Senate impeachment trial.
Speaking at a post-trial press conference on Tuesday, November 10, Tolosa maintained that he has consistently adhered to the Senate impeachment court’s sub judice rule, which prohibits public commentary that could influence pending legal proceedings.
“Then we look forward to receiving the motion that they may be filing. And we will respond to it accordingly,” Tolosa said.
His comments follow statements from Duterte’s lead defense counsel, Atty. Shiela Sison, who indicated during Tuesday’s hearing that the defense plans to raise alleged infractions of the rule by members of the prosecution.
While acknowledging that his name was mentioned during the proceedings, Tolosa noted that he awaits a formal motion to evaluate the specific claims.
“I’ve been careful with the statements that I gave, even in the press conference that we had yesterday (Monday),” Tolosa said.
“So again, we’ll just wait for the motion that they’ll be asking to have me cited in contempt,” he added.
Reaffirming the House prosecution panel’s stance, Tolosa emphasized their respect for the judicial process.
“We’ve always respected the sub judice rule and the court’s authority, integrity, as well as the integrity of the proceedings,” Tolosa stated.
“We’ve endeavored to be careful in making statements so as not to violate this rule,” he added.
The trial centers on the remaining impeachment charge against Duterte involving alleged unexplained wealth. Throughout the four-month proceedings, the prosecution has also informally raised concerns regarding public statements made by Duterte herself.
Both Tolosa and Bicol Saro Party-list Representative Terry Ridon have previously received warnings from the impeachment court concerning sub judice violations.