Ombudsman official testifies on Duterte's finances in impeachment trial

MANILA – The impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte moved into its third week Tuesday as prosecutors presented Karen Batu, officer-in-charge of the Records Division of the Office of the Ombudsman, as a key witness.

Batu's testimony focused on the vice president's net worth spanning nearly two decades, from 2007 to 2025. The Ombudsman official was expected to address allegations that Duterte failed to properly declare assets and financial information in her official statements of assets, liabilities, and net worth (SALN).

The prosecution's line of questioning centered on documentary evidence from the Ombudsman's office regarding Duterte's financial records over the extended period. Such testimony typically forms part of investigations into potential violations of anti-graft laws and financial disclosure requirements applicable to public officials.

The impeachment proceedings, now in their fourth week, continue to examine various allegations against the vice president. The trial has drawn significant public attention as one of the most high-profile political accountability cases in recent Philippine history.

The case remains ongoing with additional witnesses expected to present testimony in the coming sessions.