Solons split on Sara Duterte lawyers as impeachment witnesses
Philippine lawmakers are divided over the ethical implications of Vice President Sara Duterte's legal counsel potentially testifying as key witnesses in proposed impeachment hearings against her.
Philippine lawmakers, particularly Rep. Terry Ridon, have raised serious ethical concerns about a potential conflict of interest in Vice President Sara Duterte's impeachment defense team. The issue centers on two lawyersâMichael Poa and Reynold Munsayacâwho may also serve as witnesses due to their prior roles in the Department of Education (DepEd) when Duterte served as its secretary. This conflict emerged after Duterte's legal team submitted their entry of appearance on March 7, 2026, following the House justice committee's finding that two impeachment complaints alleging misuse of confidential funds were sufficient in form and substance.
Michael Poa served as DepEd spokesperson under Duterte's leadership and could testify on transactions or decisions under scrutiny. Reynold Munsayac acted as Duterte's spokesperson and DepEd Assistant Secretary for Procurement, making him relevant to inquiries on document preparation, auditing compliance, and transaction justifications. Rep. Ridon warned that lawyers cannot ethically act as both advocates and witnesses in the same case, suggesting that Poa or Munsayac should testify if they hold relevant information to aid fact-finding.
The impeachment complaints focus on the use and liquidation of confidential funds at the Office of the Vice President and DepEd, with House investigators probing the legitimacy of these funds for intelligence activities and compliance with auditing rules. Initially, four impeachment complaints were filed against Duterte in December 2024, with two remaining active after withdrawals and a dismissal citing the one-year bar rule. Duterte's current defense team largely mirrors her prior Senate defense, with additions including Karol Oroce and Roberto Ungab.
While the initial summary mentioned lawmakers being 'split' on this issue, current reports indicate that Rep. Terry Ridon has been the primary lawmaker raising these ethical concerns, emphasizing procedural integrity to uncover the truth. The House justice committee has been progressing with the impeachment proceedings, with earlier developments including eyewitness testimonies that could potentially strengthen the case. The impeachment process continues to face legal challenges, including Supreme Court petitions to either halt or start the Senate trial.
Join the discussion
What do you think? Drop your thoughts below.