Surprise witnesses allowed in Sara Duterte impeachment trial

This photo, taken on May 18, 2026, shows the Senate convening as an impeachment court to try Vice President Sara Duterte. —File photo by Niño Jesus Orbeta | INQUIRER

MANILA, Philippines — The presentation of surprise witnesses is still possible during the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, despite the prosecution and defense teams having previously submitted lists of witnesses.

This was according to Senate Secretary Renato Bantug, who serves as clerk of court in the impeachment trial of the vice president.

“Both parties have the right to make reservations as to witnesses that may not be available yet during pretrial. And they would have to inform the parties of the calling of such witnesses at least three days before the scheduled appearance,” Bantug told reporters before the resumption of the pre-trial conference on Monday.

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