Prosecution bypasses Duterte testimony, relies on documentary evidence

MANILA — Prosecutors handling Vice President Sara Duterte's impeachment trial announced Monday they do not currently plan to call the vice president herself to testify, citing the strength of documentary evidence already submitted to the Senate impeachment court.

During a press briefing following a recess in proceedings, members of the prosecution panel indicated that the signed documents and sworn statements attributed to Duterte speak persuasively to the allegations against her without requiring her personal testimony.

The decision underscores the prosecution's confidence in the paper trail they have compiled, which forms the foundation of their case. Impeachment trials before the Senate require a two-thirds majority vote to remove an official from office.

The vice president faces the impeachment complaint in connection with allegations related to the misuse of confidential and intelligence funds during her tenure as mayor of Davao City. She has previously denied the charges against her.

The trial continues as both prosecution and defense teams present their respective cases before the full Senate sitting as an impeachment court.