Prosecution Ready to Cross-Examine VP Duterte if She Takes Stand

MANILA — The House prosecution team has welcomed the prospect of Vice President Sara Duterte testifying at her own impeachment trial, declaring readiness to conduct a rigorous cross-examination when proceedings resume on November 9.

Prosecutors have flagged they intend to question the Vice President extensively regarding financial records that allegedly reveal unexplained wealth accumulation, undeclared assets, and participation in prohibited business activities. The prosecution has signaled it will use such testimony as an opportunity to address what it characterizes as irregularities in the Vice President's financial disclosures.

The move represents a significant escalation in the high-stakes trial, now focused on the Senate chamber after initial proceedings were conducted in the House of Representatives. By indicating their readiness to cross-examine the Vice President directly, prosecutors appear intent on creating a direct confrontation over the central allegations underpinning the impeachment case.

The trial has become one of the most consequential political proceedings in recent Philippine history, with implications for the administration and constitutional governance. The testimony phase could prove decisive in determining the outcome of the impeachment charges against the Vice President.