Politics · Philippines Bureau
Prosecution flags delay as defense seeks more time in Duterte impeachment trial
The prosecution has expressed concern about the defense's request for additional time to review financial records in Vice President Sara Duterte's impeachment proceedings. Prosecution spokesperson Benjamin Tolosa Jr. suggested the motion was causing delays without directly labeling it a delaying tactic.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA, Philippines — Prosecution counsel Benjamin "Jay" Tolosa Jr. has flagged what he views as mounting delays in Vice President Sara Duterte's impeachment trial, following the defense team's request for more time to examine financial documents.
On the 32nd day of the trial, Tolosa stopped short of explicitly accusing the defense of employing dilatory tactics but acknowledged that the motion was "obviously" prolonging the proceedings. The prosecution spokesperson's remarks highlight growing tensions between the two camps over trial management and the pace of proceedings.
The defense's request for extended review time has become a point of contention as the trial enters its second month. The prosecution has indicated its preference for maintaining momentum in the case, while the defense maintains it requires adequate time to properly analyze the materials being presented.
The trial of Duterte, who faces multiple impeachment charges, continues to draw significant attention as proceedings unfold in the House of Representatives. The request for additional time to study records underscores the complexity of the case and the substantial volume of evidence involved in the impeachment proceedings.