Evidence, not politics, will decide Sara Duterte impeachment case, says prosecutor

Floyd Brenz.,. Philippine Canadian Inquirer
August 21, 2026

MANILA – Evidence, not political narratives will ultimately determine the outcome of the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, according to House prosecutor and Bicol Saro Party-list Rep. Terry Ridon.

Ridon rejected claims by Davao City 1st District Rep. Paolo Duterte that the impeachment proceedings are driven by a predetermined narrative.

He said both the prosecution and the Vice President’s defense team have the opportunity to present their respective accounts, challenge evidence and make their case before the Senate impeachment court.

The prosecution is expected to continue presenting evidence on allegations involving the Vice President’s use of confidential funds, threats, bribery and unexplained wealth, while her lawyers will have the chance to respond and submit their own evidence.

Ridon stressed that the final outcome should be based on the totality of evidence presented by both sides, rather than political arguments.

He said the prosecution must establish sufficient evidence to support a conviction, while Duterte’s defense will have the opportunity to argue for her acquittal.

Ultimately, Ridon said, it will be the evidence placed before the senator-judges, not competing political narratives that will speak for the case.