Lawyers for Philippine VP Duterte open defence in high-stakes trial

Manila, Philippines: Sara Duterte's legal team commenced her defense on Monday in a high-stakes impeachment trial, aiming to counter allegations that she amassed unexplained wealth and secure the support of at least one-third of senators. The daughter of former President Rodrigo Duterte has been the leading contender in 2028 presidential polls, and a conviction in this trial would severely impact her political future.

The prosecution focuses on accusations that Duterte acquired wealth beyond her declared income and assets, having dropped three other charges from their claim against her. On the first day of defense, Sara Duterte's lawyer introduced Jaime Adalin, an assessor from her hometown of Davao City, who testified about tax declarations and assessment records supporting the defense's claim that a certain property was accurately declared.

The defense intends to present accountants, bankers, and corporate counsel for entities linked to Duterte, with the goal of concluding the trial by the end of the year. A forensic financial analyst for the prosecution alleged during a prior testimony that Duterte holds over 800 million pesos (US$12.70 million) in unexplained assets, including remittances from China and Hong Kong.

Duterte has dismissed the trial as political harassment and steadfastly denied any wrongdoing, maintaining a distance from the proceedings since their commencement in July, except for a brief appearance on the second day, during which she declared herself "bloodied but unbowed." While prosecutors have urged Duterte to take the stand, the defense spokesperson, Michael Poa, revealed on Monday that it is premature to determine whether the vice president will testify.

The impeachment trial marks a significant escalation in the political rift between Duterte and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who were once close allies during their successful joint campaign in 2022. However, their relationship has deteriorated since then. Marcos, constrained to one term in office, considers the impeachment a legislative issue.

Separately, Duterte faces three counts of grave threats in a criminal case related to her remarks about Marcos Jr., the first lady, and a former House speaker. She maintains her innocence in all allegations.