Retired judge denies political leanings in Duterte impeachment trial

MANILA – Retired Sandiganbayan Presiding Justice Amparo Cabotaje-Tang firmly denied having any political affiliations during her testimony in Vice President Sara Duterte's impeachment trial on Monday. When questioned by defense counsel, Tang stated she had "never been political" throughout her professional life.

The cross-examination focused on whether Tang harbored anti-Duterte sentiments or maintained ties to former Vice President Leni Robredo and her political movement. Tang's responses sought to establish her impartiality as a witness in the high-profile impeachment case.

Tang's testimony underscores the contentious nature of the impeachment proceedings, with the defense attempting to challenge the credibility and motivations of witnesses. The retired justice's insistence on her political neutrality reflects broader questions about judicial independence and the influence of partisan considerations in high-stakes government investigations.

The impeachment trial has drawn significant public attention and political commentary, with various parties scrutinizing the backgrounds and potential biases of key witnesses and participants in the proceedings.