House prosecutors handling the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte have decided to present evidence regarding her alleged unexplained wealth before addressing the bribery charges against her.
During a press briefing on Monday, September 7, Batangas 2nd District Representative Gerville Luistro, who serves as the lead prosecutor, confirmed that the panel will prioritize Article II over Article III.
Article II focuses on Duterte’s alleged unexplained wealth, whereas Article III addresses claims of bribery involving Department of Education officials during her term as education secretary.
“We find it more prudent to advance unexplained wealth and we will finish with bribery,” Luistro said.
Addressing speculation that the bribery charge might be abandoned to expedite the proceedings, Luistro informed the Senate impeachment court on its 22nd day of trial that the panel is invoking its prerogative to fast-track Article II based on its June 22 filing. She affirmed that the prosecution is not dropping Article III.
Luistro clarified that the adjustment was driven by logistical factors rather than public sentiment.
“Well to be honest with you, our consideration was the availability of witnesses and of course other relevant considerations,” she said.
“If ever nako-consider man yung public perception, that would be secondary only,” Luistro added.
She further noted that proving the unexplained wealth charge requires a broader scope of hearing days, documents, and witnesses compared to the bribery allegation.
“Mas mahaba yung trial days na hiningi ng prosecution for unexplained wealth compared to bribery,” noted the lawmaker.
The 26-member prosecution panel has already wrapped up its evidence presentation for Article IV, which covers grave threats, and expects to finish presenting evidence for Article I—pertaining to the alleged misuse of confidential funds—within the week.