Retired judge takes stand as key witness in Duterte impeachment trial

MANILA — Retired Sandiganbayan Presiding Justice Amparo Cabotaje-Tang took the witness stand Monday as the prosecution presented its first testimony in proceedings on Article II of the impeachment case against Vice President Sara Duterte.

Cabotaje-Tang, a jurist with extensive experience in the Philippine judiciary's anti-graft court, was called to discuss foundational legal principles governing matters at the center of the accusation. Her testimony marked the beginning of substantive arguments on the additional article brought by the prosecution.

The vice president's legal team immediately objected to Cabotaje-Tang's presentation as a witness, questioning the relevance and admissibility of her anticipated testimony. The defense raised procedural concerns about the scope of her proposed remarks to the impeachment court.

The appearance of the retired justice underscores the complexity of the legal issues being litigated in the high-stakes proceeding. As the impeachment trial progresses through multiple articles of accusation, both sides are expected to present expert and factual testimony to support their respective positions.

The case against Vice President Duterte represents a significant constitutional moment for the Philippines, with proceedings expected to continue through coming weeks as the court systematically addresses each article of impeachment.