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Sara Duterte impeachment trial focuses on confidential fund allegations
The impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte continues to unfold in the Philippine Senate, focusing on the alleged misuse of confidential funds. A central figure in the proceedings is Col. Raymund Dante Lachica, the former chief security officer for the Office of the Vice President. While witnesses Gina Acosta and Lemuel Ortonio testified that P500 million in confidential funds were released to Lachica, Lachica himself has stated he is willing to testify truthfully if lawfully summoned.
House lead prosecutor Gerville Luistro indicated that the prosecution may not require Lachica’s testimony if they successfully establish allegations of irregular fund liquidation and turnover to non-accountable officers. Meanwhile, defense counsel Michael Poa is scheduled to testify regarding the disbursement of Department of Education funds during Duterte’s tenure as Education Secretary.
During the hearings, Senator Robin Padilla defended the use of aliases by citing historical Philippine revolutionaries, while private prosecutor Mae Divinagracia questioned the consistency of fund justifications. Vice President Duterte has dismissed the impeachment proceedings as baseless fishing expeditions, urging prosecutors to present concrete evidence rather than relying on political theatrics and personal insults.
Entities
Armed Forces of the Philippines · Chiz Escudero · Gerville Luistro · Office of the Vice President · Philippine National Police · Raymund Dante Lachica · Robin Padilla · Sara Duterte · Senate of the Philippines
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] House lead prosecutor Gerville Luistro stated the prosecution aims to establish allegations of money turnover to non-accountable officers and irregular liquidation.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The prosecution is prepared to cross-examine Security Officer Col. Raymund Dante Lachica if the defense calls him to the stand.
- [● 2 SOURCES] Vice President Sara Duterte challenged prosecutors to provide concrete evidence rather than using insults and political theatrics. www.mindanaotimes.com.ph · newsko.com.ph
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Senator Robin Padilla argued that the use of aliases has historical precedent among Philippine revolutionaries. theglobalfilipinomagazine.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Private prosecutor Mae Divinagracia suggested that inconsistent reasons for fund use could indicate lying or a scam.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Defense spokesman Michael Poa stated the defense is undecided on whether to call Col. Lachica to testify and will react to the prosecution's presentation. www.atinitonews.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Defense counsel Michael Poa is set to testify before the Senate impeachment court regarding the disbursement of Department of Education confidential funds. cebudailynews.inquirer.net
- [● 2 SOURCES] Col. Raymund Dante Lachica stated he has never refused to testify and is prepared to tell the truth if lawfully called. www.atinitonews.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] Former OVP special disbursing officer Gina Acosta testified that P500 million in confidential funds were released to Col. Raymund Dante Lachica. www.atinitonews.com