Prosecutor calls defense sub judice claim 'diversionary tactic' in Duterte trial

MANILA — The prosecution has characterized the defense's latest challenge as an attempt to distract from core issues in Vice President Sara Duterte's impeachment trial. Lead prosecutor and Batangas Rep. Gerville Luistro made the assertion on Wednesday, directly responding to allegations filed by the defense the previous day.

On Tuesday, lead defense counsel Sheila Sison submitted a manifestation before the impeachment court, claiming that a member of the prosecution had violated the court's sub judice rule—a legal principle restricting public discussion of ongoing court cases to prevent prejudicing proceedings.

Luistro's counter-characterization reflects growing tensions between the opposing legal teams as the high-profile trial progresses. The sub judice rule violation claim targeted private prosecutors involved in the case, though specific details of the alleged violations were not immediately detailed in available accounts.

The exchange underscores the adversarial dynamics within the impeachment proceedings, with each side accusing the other of improper conduct. The trial continues to draw national attention as a significant constitutional matter involving the country's second-highest elected official.