Politics · Philippines Bureau
Impeachment court bans communication devices from VP Duterte trial witnesses
The Senate impeachment court has prohibited witnesses from using earpieces, mobile phones, and smartwatches during testimony in Vice President Sara Duterte's trial. The ban was imposed after the court discovered a viral image allegedly showing a witness with a communication device.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — The Senate impeachment court has imposed strict restrictions on witness communications during Vice President Sara Duterte's ongoing trial, prohibiting the use of earpieces, mobile phones, smartwatches, and similar devices while testifying.
Sen. Francis Escudero, the impeachment court's presiding officer, issued the directive on Tuesday following the court's discovery of a viral image that allegedly depicted witness Lemuel Ortoni in possession of a communication device during his testimony.
The measure aims to ensure the integrity of proceedings and prevent witnesses from receiving external communications or instructions while on the stand. Violators of the directive face potential consequences for obstruction of the court's proceedings.
The restrictions underscore growing concerns about trial conduct as the high-profile impeachment case continues. VP Duterte faces multiple charges stemming from allegations that triggered the impeachment process earlier this year, with the trial expected to span several months.