Politics · Philippines Bureau
Diokno reveals subpoena routed through his office to shield Tang
A House prosecutor acknowledged Monday that a Senate Impeachment Court subpoena for former Sandiganbayan justice Amparo Cabotaje-Tang was deliberately served through his office as a protective measure. The revelation emerged during proceedings in Vice President Sara Duterte's ongoing impeachment trial.
LSN Philippines ·
Manila — House prosecutor and Akbayan party-list Representative Chel Diokno disclosed on Monday that the Senate Impeachment Court's subpoena for retired Sandiganbayan Presiding Justice Amparo Cabotaje-Tang was channeled through his office to shield her from potential harassment.
The matter surfaced during the 24th day of Vice President Sara Duterte's impeachment proceedings, highlighting concerns about the protection of witnesses and judicial officials involved in high-profile cases. Diokno's statement underscored the sensitive nature of testimony related to the Vice President's trial.
The protective measure reflected apprehensions about possible intimidation or harassment of individuals appearing before the impeachment court, particularly those with prominent judicial backgrounds. The routing of official court documents through intermediaries has become a common practice in sensitive proceedings to ensure the safety and security of key witnesses.
Duterte's impeachment trial has drawn significant public and political attention since its commencement. The proceedings involve multiple witnesses and documentary evidence presented before the Senate Impeachment Court, which serves as the tribunal for impeachment cases against high-ranking officials.