Atty. Michael Poa credited his background as a public sector spokesperson for helping him keep his composure during Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment trial last Wednesday, following public praise regarding his calm delivery of arguments.
Speaking in an interview with DZRH, Poa—who serves as the spokesperson for Duterte’s legal defense team—cautioned that this mild-mannered approach might fade once the legal battle enters more intense phases.
His remarks followed observations from onlookers that both the prosecution and defense panels were notably restrained during Wednesday’s session.
Even Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero, presiding over the impeachment tribunal, highlighted the civil tone maintained by both sides.
Poa explained that the atmosphere remained calm primarily because each side was permitted to present their points without interruption.
“Tao lang tayo so minsan umiinit din talaga yung ulo natin lalo na pag medyo heated, ika nga, nagiging debate,” he said.
He pointed out, however, that emotions are highly likely to flare up once the trial transitions to calling witnesses, cross-examinations, and re-examinations.
“But syempre pagdating sa trial proper kung saan meron cross-examination, re-examination minsan hindi talaga maiiwasan na magkaroon ng mainit na balitaktakan. In fairness to all the lawyers on both sides,” Poa said.
The upcoming phases of the impeachment trial against Vice President Duterte will involve witness testimonies and evidence presentations, where both defense and prosecution teams will vigorously challenge each other’s assertions.
During his radio appearance, Poa also clarified that he only met Duterte in 2022, after she took office as vice president and assumed her role as education secretary. He stressed that he played no role in her election campaign.
Poa shared that he previously worked at the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) before applying to the Department of Education, hoping to assist with issues surrounding teachers’ loans.
He was later requested to serve as Duterte’s spokesperson, a role he maintains while aiding her defense panel.
The Senate, sitting as an impeachment court, is set to formally begin the trial proper on Monday, July 20.