Prosecution alleges VP Duterte's defense using delay tactics in impeachment trial

House Deputy Speaker Janette Garin has charged that the defense counsel for Vice President Sara Duterte is pursuing a strategy of prolonging the impeachment trial through procedural maneuvers. Garin, who represents Iloilo's 1st District, made the assertion while discussing the prosecution's decision to drop three of the four impeachment charges initially filed against the Vice President.

According to Garin, concerns about the defense team's plan to call an extensive list of witnesses influenced the prosecution's choice to narrow the charges. The move was made to prevent further delays in what has become a protracted legal proceeding.

The impeachment trial of Vice President Duterte has drawn significant attention as it represents a rare constitutional challenge to a sitting vice president. The withdrawal of three charges leaves a single count against Duterte, though the exact nature of the remaining charge was not specified in available accounts.

Garin's comments underscore the contentious nature of the proceedings and suggest growing frustration among prosecution members over the trial's pace. The exchange highlights the strategic calculations both sides are making as the case progresses through the House of Representatives.