VP Sara Duterte's defense team firm against arraignment

Vice President Sara Duterte’s defense team for her impeachment trial remained firm against her arraignment, stating that they had explained enough why it is unnecessary.

The Senate impeachment court opened Duterte’s impeachment trial on Monday, July 6.

In a “24 Oras” report by Ian Cruz, among the rulings made by the impeachment court was the denial of Duterte's arraignment, which would have required entering a plea of guilty or not guilty for each article of impeachment.

On the first day of the Vice President’s trial, her defense team described the proceedings as "smooth."

“I think it’s as long as we present our case and present what we want for the day, we should be happy,” defense team spokesperson Atty. Michael Poa said.

Lead defense counsel Atty. Shiela Sison did not directly answer whether she is confident in defending Duterte’s case, but said that they are doing all the necessary work.

Poa said he has not yet spoken with the Vice President about the first day of the impeachment trial.

“Hindi pa po kami nag-uusap sa ngayon because I just came from the defense huddle, but siguro baka mamayang gabi or tomorrow,” Poa said.

(We haven’t spoken yet because I just came from the defense huddle, but perhaps later tonight or tomorrow.)

When asked if they would advise Duterte to attend the next trial dates, Poa stated that it is too early to make that decision at this time. —Lyjah Tiffany Bonzo/LDF, GMA News