Tulfo urges prosecution to streamline witness strategy in Duterte impeachment trial

MANILA — During the opening phase of Vice President Sara Duterte's impeachment trial on Thursday, Senator-judge Raffy Tulfo expressed frustration with the prosecution's witness selection, saying their approach has failed to maintain the attention and interest of the presiding senator-judges.

Tulfo directed his remarks at the prosecution team, which includes public prosecutor Jonathan Flores of Bukidnon, noting that several witnesses called to testify have not substantively advanced the impeachment case. The senator-judge emphasized the importance of presenting only essential testimony to strengthen the prosecution's allegations against the vice president.

The criticism underscores growing concerns among some members of the Senate about the efficiency and focus of the impeachment proceedings. Observers have noted that the trial's success may depend on the prosecution's ability to present a compelling, well-organized case without procedural delays or redundancies.

The impeachment trial, which began this week, is expected to continue with additional witness testimonies in the coming weeks. The Senate panel has indicated it will maintain close scrutiny over how both the prosecution and defense present their evidence and arguments throughout the proceedings.