Presiding Officer Sen. Francis Escudero excused prosecution witness Marivic Pareja of the House Legislative Information Bureau from testifying on the 16th day of Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment trial after the defense panel stipulated to the presented documents.
“Without prejudice to proof being presented by counsel for the respondent that these are not faithful reproductions of the original on file, then we can presume regularity. Correct counsel?” Escudero asked.
Defense counsel Lindon Miguel Bacquel agreed to the terms, confirming the defense’s agreement regarding the records and Pareja’s certification.
“Your Honor, we confirm our stipulation as to the documents mentioned by the prosecution that these are documents transmitted to the Archives and the Archives are the custodian of these documents,” Bacquel said, adding that they also stipulated to the witness’s certification on the documents’ identity and reproduction.
Escudero noted that the stipulation eliminated the need for the testimony, provided no contrary evidence arises later.
“Unless proof later on during cross (examination), at any stage of the trial is presented regarding the inaccuracy of these documents…Counsel is willing to stipulate, thereby dispensing again with this witness,” Escudero said.
With the agreement secured, Escudero officially dismissed the witness.
“So, can we dispense with this witness? …Ms. Pareja, you are excused… And we thank you for your time and for coming over. Thank you for your patience,” Escudero said.