Prosecution says Poa testimony yielded key admissions in Sara Duterte impeachment trial

Floyd Brenz., Philippine Canadian Inquirer,

September 05, 2026

Photo Courtesy: Senate of the Philippines

The House prosecution team is standing by its decision to present defense counsel Michael Poa as a hostile witness, saying his testimony produced key admissions during the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte.

The prosecution maintained that Poa’s appearance was necessary to clarify issues surrounding the Department of Education’s use of confidential funds, despite his role as part of the defense panel.

The move drew attention during the proceedings as prosecutors questioned Poa about matters linked to his previous position and his knowledge of the transactions under scrutiny.

The prosecution said the testimony helped establish details relevant to its case and provided information that could be weighed by the impeachment court as the trial continues.

Poa has previously served as a DepEd undersecretary and spokesperson during Duterte’s tenure as education secretary.

The prosecution’s defense of its strategy comes as both sides continue presenting witnesses and evidence in the impeachment proceedings against Duterte.