Palace denies Marcos interference claims in Duterte impeachment trial

The presidential palace on Friday issued a direct challenge to members of the Senate sitting as an impeachment court, demanding they back up assertions that President Marcos was interfering in the trial of Vice President Sara Duterte.

At a press briefing in Batac City, Ilocos Norte, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro responded to questions about the administration's involvement in the high-profile impeachment case. Castro called on the senator-judges to provide concrete evidence supporting their claims of presidential meddling in the proceedings.

The exchange underscores growing tensions surrounding the impeachment trial, which has captivated the nation's political establishment. The Senate is expected to continue hearing the case as both sides maintain their positions on whether the administration has exerted undue influence over the judicial process.

Meanwhile, observers are watching closely for any developments that might affect the trial's trajectory. The administration's public denial and demand for evidence signals its determination to counter perceptions of involvement in what is officially framed as an independent Senate proceeding.