Iloilo 1st District Representative Janette Garin called out Vice President Sara Duterte’s defense attorney, Atty. Mark Vinluan, on Monday, September 14, over his line of questioning directed at former Sandiganbayan Presiding Justice Amparo Cabotaje-Tang during the Senate impeachment trial.
Speaking to reporters following the day’s court proceedings, Garin expressed disapproval of Vinluan’s conduct, describing his cross-examination strategy as inappropriate and disrespectful.
“Nagtataka kami kanina, with due courtesy of course sa ating defense lawyer kay Mark Vinluan, na tila parang, sa interpretasyon ko bilang isang babae, medyo bastos ‘yung kanyang manner of cross-examining the witness,” Garin stated.
The lawmaker raised strong objections to Vinluan pressing Cabotaje-Tang on whether she aligned herself with the “Kakampink” political movement or the “DDS” (Duterte Diehard Supporters) group.
The label “Kakampink” refers to supporters of former Vice President and current Naga City Mayor Leni Robredo, whereas “DDS” denotes loyalists of former President Rodrigo Duterte.
“Kasi nandun yung katanungan, Kakampink ka ba? Eto galit ka ba sa ganito? Parang pinipilit siyang sumagot ng mga bagay na alam naman natin na ang presensiya niya sa impeachment court ay para magbigay ng intepretasyon sa mga batas sang-ayon sa kanyang experience,” Garin added.
Garin highlighted that the former magistrate had already clarified her neutral, apolitical stance under oath and had even noted she was unfamiliar with the term “pink” in a political context.
Commending the witness’s extensive public service, Garin emphasized Cabotaje-Tang’s long-standing professional record and personal integrity.
“Humarap ang isang witness na hindi lamang nagsilbi sa taong bayan kundi nagsilbi nang matagal taong bayan na may integridad at walang bahid sa pangalan,” the House leader declared.