Antonio Trillanes IV not barred from Duterte impeachment testimony

The Senate Impeachment Court has clarified that former Senator Antonio Trillanes IV is not barred from testifying in the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte. Court spokesperson Regie Tongol stated the court is prepared to hear any testimony Trillanes may present, noting he could still be called as a common witness by the defense.

The clarification follows a period of confusion after the House prosecution panel's request for a subpoena for Trillanes was not fulfilled. While the prosecution initially sought to present him as a witness, they subsequently withdrew the bid. Trillanes has suggested that the prosecution faced pressure regarding his testimony and questioned the authority of the presiding officer, Francis “Chiz” Escudero, regarding the handling of subpoenas.

During a press conference, Trillanes also raised allegations concerning Vice President Duterte’s financial matters, including questioning her declared assets and linking her to entities involving China.