House prosecution spokesperson and Lanao del Sur Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong said Vice President Sara Z. Duterte’s personal appearance in her impeachment trial could energize her supporters and signal to neutral observers that she is ready to confront the allegations against her.
Adiong, however, said Duterte’s repeated absence from earlier proceedings creates an impression of avoidance.
“Hindi yung gino-ghost ka. Pero sana mag-appear siya para hindi ghosting,” he said.
He noted that his assessment is based on Duterte’s conduct in prior stages of the case, including her absence from the pre-trial conference.
“Yung personal? Kasi ang ating conclusion is base din kung ano nakikita natin,” Adiong said.
“From the very start, wala talaga tayong nakita na dumalo siya doon sa confirmation,” he added.
Adiong said Duterte was represented by lawyers and a special power of attorney during the pre-trial conference instead of appearing personally.
“Even dito sa pre-trial conference, nag-sign na lang siya ng SPA para hindi na lang siya pumunta doon,” he said.
He acknowledged Duterte’s camp has said she may attend the trial but stressed that the public is still waiting for confirmation.
“Pero ang sinabi naman ng kanyang spokesperson… pupunta daw siya, pero kailan? We’ll see,” he said.
Adiong said Filipinos generally dislike unresolved or unfinished processes, especially in cases involving accountability.
“Kasi ang tao ngayon, ang Pilipino ayaw niya ng hanging… ang gusto nila ‘yung satisfactorily done,” he said.
He added that Duterte’s presence could strengthen her support base and shape perceptions among undecided observers.
“Sa akin dalawang bagay, it will energize further her support base,” he said.
“It will even give an impression sa mga neutral na… seryoso talaga,” he added.
Adiong said the trial is also an opportunity for Duterte to personally present her defense before the Senate impeachment court.
“Mahirap i-depensa yung something na ayaw magpa-depensa,” he said.