Accountant tells impeachment court she was 'partner in name only'

Vingelin Bajan, a Davao City-based accountant, took the witness stand before the Senate impeachment court on Tuesday, clarifying her role at an accounting firm with connections to companies associated with Vice President Sara Duterte and her spouse, Atty. Manases Carpio.

Bajan stated that her position as a partner at the firm was largely nominal in nature, suggesting she did not exercise substantive control or decision-making authority over the company's operations. The testimony came as the defense team presented its case during the ongoing impeachment proceedings.

The accounting firm has been the subject of scrutiny due to its links to business entities owned or controlled by the Vice President and her husband. Bajan's clarification regarding the extent of her involvement at the firm appears intended to address questions about the structure and management of the company.

The witness testimony forms part of the defense's efforts to counter allegations being examined during the impeachment trial. The Senate court continues to hear evidence from both prosecution and defense teams as the case proceeds.