MANILA, Philippines — The Senate impeachment court on Tuesday, September 29, officially designated Davao City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte as a hostile witness in the ongoing trial against his sister, Vice President Sara Duterte.
The decision was handed down by Presiding Officer Francis “Chiz” Escudero after the prosecution successfully demonstrated the mayor’s adverse interest, pointing to his familial relationship with the Vice President.
The court further cited his past public remarks criticizing the proceedings and his acknowledgment that he only attended because he was served a court summons.
“The Court, therefore, declares that the adverse interest of the witness has been established and declares him a hostile witness,” Escudero said.
The classification permits the House prosecution team to subject the local chief executive to leading questions concerning Davao City municipal contracts and other matters tied to the Vice President’s alleged unexplained wealth.
The motion to declare Mayor Duterte hostile was raised by prosecution team member and former Supreme Court spokesperson Atty. Theodore Te, who established the legal foundation through initial questioning.
During the exchange, the mayor agreed with the premise that the proceedings were intended to block his sister from seeking higher office in 2028.
“That is my perception,” the mayor said.
Mayor Duterte also confirmed that his appearance before the Senate panel was solely due to the subpoena issued to him.