THE House prosecution will continue providing factual updates on Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment trial to prevent fake news and public confusion while complying with restrictions under the Senate impeachment court’s sub judice rule, prosecution spokesperson and adviser Ace Barbers said Friday.
Barbers said the prosecution respects the ruling of Senate impeachment court Presiding Officer Francis “Chiz” Escudero restricting public statements on matters that could influence the proceedings.
The rule bars parties and their lawyers from commenting on disputed facts, witness credibility, the weight or sufficiency of evidence, and the merits of the impeachment charges.
Barbers said the restrictions would not prevent spokespersons from reporting what transpired during open court, provided the information is factual and complete.
He said keeping the public informed is important because many Filipinos cannot follow the impeachment proceedings, which can run for several hours.
The prosecution is also considering changes to its communications team, including adding more spokespersons, although no final decision has been made.
Barbers said additional spokespersons could help explain developments while allowing the prosecution to maintain its overall legal strategy.
Deputy Speaker Paolo Ortega V said the prosecution is still studying the scope of the ruling but will fully respect Rule 18. He said the team would act collectively in deciding whether to change its spokesperson lineup.
Ortega also urged the public to continue following the impeachment trial through live proceedings or factual reports on key developments, saying Filipinos have a stake in the proceedings.
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