HOUSE prosecutors said Monday they are working to complete the impeachment pre-trial conference as soon as possible to allow the Senate impeachment court to issue its pre-trial order ahead of the July 6 start of the trial of Vice President Sara Z. Duterte.
Lead prosecutor Batangas Rep. Gerville “Jinky Bitrics” Luistro said the prosecution’s goal has always been to expedite the proceedings, although logistical challenges have slowed the marking of documentary evidence.
“It has always been the position of the prosecution to expedite the pre-trial conference. That is why we would want, really, to finish this marking today,” Luistro said in a press conference at the Senate.
The prosecution panel is currently marking exhibits related to the Articles of Impeachment involving Duterte’s alleged misuse of confidential funds and unexplained wealth.
Luistro acknowledged that limitations on both sides have affected the pace of the proceedings but said the prosecution remains committed to completing the process at the earliest possible time.
Once the marking of exhibits is completed, Luistro said the impeachment court is expected to issue a pre-trial order that will govern the conduct of the trial.
“After the marking of all exhibits for both parties, we anticipate to receive the pre-trial order from the impeachment court,” she said.
The chair of the House Committee on Justice described the pre-trial order as a critical document because it will contain the stipulated facts, list of witnesses, marked exhibits and trial dates agreed upon during pre-trial proceedings.
“The pre-trial order is very important because this is binding between the parties, including the impeachment court,” Luistro explained.
“Whatever is contained thereat must be followed by all parties as we proceed to trial,” she added.
Luistro said the prosecution has also submitted a manifestation regarding the order in which the four Articles of Impeachment should be presented, which it expects to be reflected in the pre-trial order.
While pre-trial proceedings are still underway, Luistro said the timeline for the next phase of the impeachment case remains clear.
“What is important, of course, is with regard to the start of the trial. It is certain that it will commence on July 6, as previously announced by the Senate.”
About the Author
