House prosecution lines up 13 witnesses for Sara Duterte confi funds charge

The House prosecution panel is prepared to present up to 13 witnesses in Vice President Sara Duterte's impeachment trial as it proceeds to Article I, which accuses her of allegedly misusing P612.5 million in confidential funds.

After the prosecution team wrapped up its presentation of evidence on Article IV, which concerns the grave threats charge, House Prosecutor and Manila Rep. Joel Chua said the panel has lined up its next set of witnesses.

"We have more or less 13 witnesses, so if we can shorten the process—let's say after presenting eight or nine witnesses—and we believe the case is already very solid, then we can move on to the next article," Chua said

Chua, however, said presenting fewer witnesses would not weaken the prosecution's case.

The prosecution had originally listed 11 witnesses for Article IV but rested its case after presenting only three.

The same approach could be taken for Article I, Chua said, noting that expediting the proceedings would allow the senator-judges to deliberate and reach a decision sooner.

“We do not want a lengthy process or hearing,” Chua said.

The Manila lawmaker said the prosecution will next present two former Commission on Audit auditors and a House of Representatives records custodian, following the testimonies of two former Land Bank of the Philippines branch managers last week.

Duterte's impeachment trial is scheduled to resume on Monday, August 3. — MCG, GMA News