Palace disputes use of 'scam,' 'mastermind' labels in Duterte impeachment trial

The Office of the President has raised concerns over the language being used during the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, with Palace Press Officer Claire Castro stating Wednesday that descriptors like "scam" and "mastermind" should not be introduced without concrete evidentiary support.

Castro's statement followed a ruling by Senator-Judge Francis Escudero, who presides over the impeachment court, instructing prosecutors to cease using the disputed terminology during proceedings. The adjudication of such characterizations, according to the Palace position, requires more than allegations—they must be substantiated by definitive proof and accompanied by a conclusive judicial determination.

The dispute underscores broader tensions surrounding the ongoing impeachment case, with the Palace asserting that trial participants bear responsibility for maintaining linguistic precision and adhering to standards of evidence. The controversy reflects procedural debates about the parameters within which lawyers may frame their arguments during the high-stakes proceedings against the Vice President.

The impeachment trial, which centers on allegations that have drawn national attention, continues as both the prosecution and defense present their respective cases before the court.