Business · Philippines Bureau
Expert witness clashes with defense counsel over qualifications in Duterte trial
A forensic financial analyst defended his expertise during cross-examination in the ongoing impeachment trial, responding to questions about his qualifications by asserting that legal standards are straightforward to understand.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — Forensic financial analyst and lawyer Alexander Cabrera engaged in a pointed exchange with defense counsel Kristine Ferrer during questioning at the impeachment trial, pushing back against scrutiny of his credentials as an expert witness. When Ferrer questioned his qualifications, Cabrera responded by stating that understanding legal requirements is not difficult, underscoring his confidence in his professional standing. The exchange highlighted tensions during cross-examination as the defense sought to challenge the witness's authority to provide specialized testimony in the case. Cabrera's assertion reflected a broader debate about expert witness standards in the high-profile proceeding. The trial, which entered its proceedings on October 12, 2026, has seen numerous witnesses take the stand to provide testimony on complex financial and legal matters.