The House prosecution panel is considering shortening its witness lineup for Article I of Vice President Sara Z. Duterte’s confidential-fund case, provided upcoming testimonies complete the essential evidentiary picture.
House trial spokesperson and impeachment adviser Robert Ace Barbers explained that prosecutors are continually re-evaluating their trial strategy to streamline proceedings.
“It’s like completing the puzzle. We have placed most pieces, but some are still missing,” Barbers said, emphasizing that remaining witnesses are lined up to fill specific gaps in the evidence.
Although allotted 31 trial days for Article I, the prosecution seeks to avoid redundant testimonies. The panel previously adopted a similar approach for Article IV (grave threats), dropping several witnesses after concluding existing records provided sufficient proof.
Weather disruptions and scheduling delays have further pressured prosecutors to maximize hearing days efficiently, especially as lawmakers balance the trial with preparations for the 2027 national budget.
Barbers noted that once key facts are fully established, unnecessary witnesses will be excused to avoid dragging out the trial.