Metro Manila, Philippines – The prosecution is aiming to present evidence on the alleged unexplained wealth of Vice President Sara Duterte next week after the confidential fund misuse, moving the presentation of bribery charges to a later date.
In an interview with NewsWatch Plus, prosecution counsel and spokesperson Jay Tolosa said evidence and witnesses for Article 2 (unexplained wealth) may be presented as early as Monday, Sept. 14, should the prosecution wrap up on the confidential fund allegations this week.
“Mas madami kasi talaga ang mga ebidensya at testigo na kailangan naming i-prisenta with respect sa usapin ng unexplained wealth. Minabuti naming unahin na namin ito,” Tolosa said.
[Translation: We have more evidence and witnesses to present on the allegations of unexplained wealth, that’s why we decided to have this presented first.]
He added that the prosecution acknowledges public sentiment on the weight of bribery charges, as shown in a survey where four in 10 respondents said it is the most serious impeachment allegation.
Lead prosecutor Jinky Luistro informed the Impeachment Court of its decision on Monday, Sept. 7, clarifying that the prosecution is not dropping the bribery charge.
“As of this moment, your honor, the decision is to maintain both articles in the presentation of evidence, only that unexplained wealth will be advanced,” she said.
Lead defense lawyer Sheila Sison said she took note of reorganization, noting it is the prosecution’s prerogative to present their case.
House prosecutor Terry Ridon, who is leading the team in charge of unexplained wealth allegations against Duterte, previously said the panel will review the bank records and tax documents of the vice president and her spouse, Mans Carpio, which the prosecution received last week.
