House leaders counter Duterte lawyers’ confidence in defeating impeachment case

Metro Manila, Philippines - House leaders countered on Wednesday, April 23 the confidence of Vice President Sara Duterte’s lawyers that they could defeat the impeachment charges against her.

House Assistant Majority Leader and Zambales Rep. Jay Khonghun and Deputy Majority Leader and La Union Rep. Paolo Ortega V said they have significant evidence against the impeached vice president.

“Libre ang mangarap [Dreaming is free]. She can be as confident as she wants, but that doesn’t change the facts. The evidence we’ve uncovered is substantial, well documented, and rooted in her own actions,” Khonghun said.

“The evidence is clear, the violations are serious, and the public deserves the truth,” Ortega said.

While Duterte denied that she endorsed senatorial bets to have a favorable impeachment trial, Khonghun cautioned against using political alliances or electoral influence.

READ: Father’s detention triggered my poll involvement - VP

The House impeached Duterte, citing her supposed mismanagement of P612.5-million confidential funds among other issues.

The vice president has also submitted acknowledgment receipts with alleged dubious names to justify her confidential fund spending.

Her threat against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Marcos, and House Speaker Martin Romualdez was also listed in the articles of impeachment.

The Senate, which will sit as impeachment court, is expected to start the trial in July.