Impeachment court may call witnesses in Duterte trial, Escudero says

Senator Francis Escudero, who is presiding over the impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte, clarified that the court possesses the power to compel witness testimony whenever circumstances warrant such action. Escudero's statement addressed ongoing questions about the scope of evidence that may be presented during the high-profile trial.

The announcement followed Senator-judge Erwin Tulfo's suggestion that the House prosecution team consider presenting Duterte's former security personnel as witnesses. Among the individuals Tulfo mentioned was Col. [name withheld pending full disclosure], who served in Duterte's security detail.

The ability to call additional witnesses could expand the factual record before the 24 senator-judges tasked with determining whether to convict or acquit the Vice President. The impeachment court's witness authority represents a critical procedural power that could influence the direction and scope of the trial as it progresses through the Senate.

Escudero's clarification provides guidance to both the prosecution and defense teams regarding potential evidentiary opportunities, though he did not indicate whether the court would actively seek witnesses or respond only to requests from the parties involved in the case.