Politics · Philippines Bureau
Duterte camp dismisses Trillanes accusations as malicious propaganda
Vice President Sara Duterte's representatives have rejected former Senator Antonio Trillanes IV's recent allegations as baseless claims designed to damage her reputation. Officials questioned the credibility of Trillanes' statements, citing his absence from impeachment proceedings.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — The office of Vice President Sara Duterte has characterized accusations leveled by former Senator Antonio Trillanes IV as "malicious fabrications" and "black propaganda," dismissing the claims as part of a coordinated campaign against the vice president.
Duterte's spokesperson, Atty. Paolo Panelo Jr., said the allegations lack substance and cannot withstand legal examination. The camp pointed to Trillanes' absence from impeachment court proceedings as evidence that his narratives would not survive scrutiny under oath.
The statement represents the latest escalation in the ongoing dispute between Duterte and Trillanes, who has made multiple public accusations against the vice president in recent weeks. Duterte's team has previously denied similar charges, characterizing them as part of a broader effort to undermine her administration.
The vice president's office did not provide specific details regarding which allegations it was addressing, though it emphasized that Duterte remained focused on her official responsibilities despite the attacks. Legal experts have noted that the credibility of witnesses in impeachment proceedings is typically tested through cross-examination and the presentation of corroborating evidence.