Politics · Philippines Bureau
Duterte Impeachment Trial Enters New Phase With Key Police Witness
Vice President Sara Duterte's impeachment proceedings reached Day 23 on Monday as prosecutors prepared to call their first reserved witness to testify on allegations of fund misuse. Police Maj. Jovelyn Magay is expected to provide testimony regarding the handling of confidential funds by the Office of the Vice President and Department of Education.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA – The impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte advanced to a critical juncture as the prosecution moved to present evidence through reserved witness testimony on September 8.
Police Maj. Jovelyn Magay was scheduled to take the stand on the 23rd day of proceedings, with prosecutors expected to direct questions toward allegations of improper use of confidential funds managed by both the Office of the Vice President and the Department of Education, where Duterte previously served as secretary.
Reserved witnesses are typically called to provide testimony on matters where direct access to evidence or firsthand knowledge is necessary to support charges before the Senate impeachment court. The appearance of Magay marked a significant shift in trial strategy as prosecutors moved beyond opening arguments and into substantive evidence presentation.
The impeachment process, which began earlier this year, centers on various allegations against the Vice President. Proceedings have continued throughout recent months with both prosecution and defense presenting their respective cases before the Senate acting as an impeachment court.
The trial is expected to continue in the coming weeks as additional witnesses and evidence are presented by both sides.