Politics · Philippines Bureau
AMLC chief's nerves evident as VP Duterte wealth trial continues
The Anti-Money Laundering Council's top official admitted to being too anxious to eat while preparing to testify about Vice President Sara Duterte's alleged unexplained wealth. The testimony marked a significant moment in the ongoing impeachment proceedings against the vice president.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — Anti-Money Laundering Council Executive Director Ronel Buenaventura took the witness stand Monday to testify regarding allegations of unexplained wealth linked to Vice President Sara Duterte, with the executive acknowledging the considerable pressure of the occasion.
Buenaventura's appearance came on Day 33 of the impeachment trial, where he was called to provide evidence on financial matters central to the case against the vice president. The AMLC chief disclosed that his nervousness ahead of the testimony was so intense he forgone lunch, underscoring the gravity of his appearance.
The witness was permitted to testify despite objections raised by the defense, marking a procedural victory for the prosecution team. Buenaventura's testimony was expected to provide the impeachment court with institutional expertise on money laundering investigations and the vice president's financial records.
The trial represents one of the highest-profile impeachment proceedings in recent Philippine history, with the financial allegations forming a cornerstone of the case presented by the prosecution.