Duterte defense seeks sub judice protection on withdrawn impeachment charges

MANILA — The defense counsel for Vice President Sara Duterte has filed a manifestation with the Senate impeachment court requesting that sub judice rules remain in force for charges the prosecution has withdrawn from the case against her, according to court spokesperson Atty. Reginald Tongol.

The sub judice rule prohibits public discussion of matters currently before courts to prevent prejudicial commentary that could compromise judicial proceedings. Duterte's lawyers argue the rule should continue protecting articles of impeachment that prosecutors have dropped, effectively shielding them from public debate and media scrutiny.

Tongol confirmed the filing on Thursday, characterizing it as a response to a previous court action. The move reflects ongoing procedural maneuvering in the impeachment case, which has drawn significant public and political attention since its initiation.

The impeachment proceedings against the Vice President have centered on allegations spanning multiple articles. The prosecution's decision to drop certain charges has raised questions about the scope and confidentiality protections applicable to the case as it continues through the Senate court.

No immediate ruling on the defense manifestation has been announced. The case represents one of the most significant impeachment proceedings in Philippine politics in recent years, with procedural decisions potentially affecting the trajectory of the proceedings and public access to information about the charges.