Cayetano questions fairness of impeachment withdrawal against Duterte

MANILA — Senator Alan Peter Cayetano on Tuesday challenged the fairness of prosecutors withdrawing three of four impeachment articles against Vice President Sara Duterte, contending the move places the defense in an untenable position.

Cayetano compared the situation to a one-sided confrontation, saying the defense had been struck but was then being told it could not fight back. The senator's comments reflect growing debate over the prosecution's strategy in the high-profile impeachment case.

The withdrawal of the three articles leaves a single charge remaining against the Vice President. Legal observers have noted that the reduction in charges narrows the scope of the case while potentially limiting the defense's opportunity to fully address the allegations.

The impeachment proceedings against Duterte have drawn intense scrutiny as they involve the nation's second-highest elected official. The case continues to unfold amid discussions about the proper procedures and fairness standards that should govern such proceedings.