Prosec won’t call sheriff, reporters as witnesses in impeach trial anymore

The prosecution panel in the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte in Senate plenary hall in Pasay City on Monday, July 6, 2026. (Photo from NIÑO JESUS ORBETA / INQUIRER.net)

MANILA, Philippines — The prosecution panel for Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment trial has withdrawn more witnesses for Article IV or the allegation of grave threats, including the sheriff that Duterte previously assaulted, and reporters who witnessed her online press briefing.

During the trial on Wednesday at the Senate, lead public prosecutor and Batangas Rep. Gerville Luistro said they will no longer call the following six individuals to the witness stand:

Representatives from Philippine National Police (PNP) Firearms and Explosives office

Reuters reporter Mikhail Flores