Prosecutors challenge VP Duterte's witness selection in property declaration case

MANILA — The House prosecution voiced concerns Tuesday over Vice President Sara Duterte's choice of witnesses in her ongoing impeachment inquiry, questioning why her defense presented city assessors instead of Registry of Deeds officials to substantiate property claims in her statements of assets, liabilities, and net worth.

Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong, spokesperson for the prosecution panel, highlighted the distinction between the roles of the two agencies. City assessors are responsible for property valuations and taxation assessments, he noted, while Registry of Deeds officials maintain official property ownership records and documentation.

The prosecution's objection underscores a critical procedural issue in the impeachment proceedings, where establishing the authenticity and accuracy of Duterte's financial disclosures remains central to the inquiry. The presentation of witnesses with appropriate authority and expertise is deemed essential to validating or challenging the disputed property entries.

The vice president faces scrutiny over discrepancies in her SALN filings, with particular focus on properties listed in her financial statements. The prosecution's challenge suggests efforts to ensure testimony comes from officials with direct jurisdiction and custodianship over property records rather than those handling only tax assessment functions.