Duterte says legal team fully represents her in impeachment trial

MANILA — Vice President Sara Duterte maintained Wednesday that she has no obligation to personally attend her impeachment trial, citing sufficient legal representation through her counsel.

Duterte's position comes as she continues to abstain from the Senate impeachment court proceedings despite mounting pressure for her direct participation. She argued that her defense lawyers are fully equipped to represent her interests in the trial without requiring her physical presence.

The Vice President's decision to remain absent has drawn scrutiny from observers who contend that in-person testimony could accelerate the pace of the proceedings. However, Duterte's legal team has demonstrated its ability to manage her defense through conventional courtroom representation.

The impeachment trial, which centers on charges against the Vice President, continues to move through the Senate's judicial processes. Meanwhile, the impeachment court has continued granting requests from participants seeking leave from proceedings, underscoring the ongoing nature of the case.