Politics · Philippines Bureau
Prosecutors may quit VP Duterte trial to serve as spokespersons
Some members of the prosecution panel in Vice President Sara Duterte's impeachment trial may resign from their positions to become full-time spokespersons, a lawmaker said Thursday, citing restrictions on public commentary imposed by the Senate Impeachment Court.
LSN Philippines ·
Lanao del Sur Representative Zia Alonto Adiong disclosed that prosecutors could step down from the trial to take on media liaison roles as the Senate Impeachment Court strictly enforces the sub judice rule, which limits public statements about ongoing legal proceedings.
Alonto Adiong made the remarks during a press briefing at the Batasang Pambansa complex, signaling potential operational challenges for the prosecution team as the high-profile impeachment case against the Vice President proceeds.
The sub judice rule prohibits parties involved in active legal cases from making public statements that could influence proceedings or prejudge the outcome. The Senate Impeachment Court's strict application of the rule has apparently prompted discussion among prosecutors about how to manage their communications strategy.
The shift would allow the prosecution to maintain a public voice through dedicated spokespersons while prosecutors focus exclusively on courtroom proceedings without risking violations of the judicial restrictions.
The impeachment trial of Vice President Duterte has drawn significant national attention, with multiple interested parties seeking to shape public narrative around the proceedings.