Duterte's potential testimony unpredictable, warns House deputy speaker

MANILA — As Congress weighs calling Vice President Sara Duterte as a witness in proceedings against her, a senior House official has warned colleagues to prepare for an unpredictable outcome.

Deputy Speaker Paolo Ortega V suggested that even if the prosecution panel succeeds in having Duterte testify, there is no guarantee she will provide substantive responses to the numerous controversies surrounding her administration and tenure.

Ortega's caution reflects the ongoing tensions between the legislative branch and the Vice President's office. The impeachment effort has centered on allegations related to her management of executive funds and other governance issues that have shadowed her political career.

The prospect of direct testimony from Duterte remains uncertain, with procedural questions still unresolved regarding whether she can be compelled to answer questions on matters she considers privileged or sensitive.

The developments underscore the complexity of the impeachment process and the challenges lawmakers face in obtaining definitive clarifications from senior government officials on contested matters of public concern.