In a statement, Duterte likened the situation to David facing Goliath, saying the defense counsel was simply performing her duty by challenging the allegations against the Vice President.
Duterte criticized the House prosecution for allegedly failing to present compelling evidence to substantiate its accusations despite its use of subpoena powers and the filing of impeachment articles before the Senate.
“After all that, where is the evidence?” Duterte asked.
She also raised concerns over allegations of cash distribution and political maneuvering surrounding the proposed 2027 national budget, questioning whether public funds were being used to serve Filipinos or to influence senators who would act as judges in the impeachment trial.
Duterte further questioned the role of defense counsel in the alleged political transactions, maintaining that the lawyer had no involvement and was focused on preparing the Vice President’s defense.
According to Duterte, the defense team has spent countless hours preparing for the case since 2023, sacrificing sleep and time with their families to review documents and develop their arguments.
“The public deserves better than political theater disguised as accountability,” she said.
The Vice President also challenged her critics to apply accountability consistently, including to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., whom she criticized over his position on drug use and accountability.
Duterte urged her critics to refrain from personal attacks, emphasizing that a defense lawyer does not become a bully simply for challenging accusations against her client.
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