Politics · Philippines Bureau
Defense counsel takes witness stand in Duterte impeachment proceedings
Michael Poa, a lawyer representing Vice President Sara Duterte in her ongoing impeachment trial, appeared before the Senate impeachment court as a hostile witness for the prosecution. The testimony centered on allegations of misappropriation of confidential funds from the Department of Education.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — The impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte took an unusual turn when Michael Poa, one of her defense attorneys, was called to testify before the Senate impeachment court as a prosecution witness.
Poa, a senior partner in his law firm, appeared before the court as prosecutors questioned him regarding allegations that Duterte misused confidential funds allocated to the Department of Education during her tenure as the agency's secretary.
The move to call a defense counsel as a hostile witness underscores the complex legal maneuvering characterizing the high-profile impeachment case. Poa's testimony provided an opportunity for prosecutors to present evidence and arguments challenging the vice president's handling of the DepEd's confidential budget.
The impeachment trial, which has drawn significant public attention, continues to examine financial management practices within the education department. The case represents one of the most significant political legal battles in the Philippines in recent years, with multiple sessions scheduled as the Senate court methodically reviews evidence and hears testimonies from various parties.