President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. says it would be “much easier” for Vice President Sara Duterte to respond to impeachment allegations if she appears before the Senate impeachment court. Speaking to reporters in Vancouver, Canada, Marcos argues that direct questioning of the accused would allow the matter to be clarified more effectively than responses delivered through indirect means. He contrasts speaking to the accused directly with answers provided through “secondary channels” or only through lawyers, saying that direct participation helps the process “get to the bottom of everything.”
Marcos also indicates that, if he were in Duterte’s position, he would insist on attending the impeachment trial to address the allegations. The remarks are presented as guidance on how the impeachment process should be conducted, rather than as a ruling on the merits of the case. Both outlets report that Marcos frames his position around the value of direct testimony and participation in the Senate proceedings.
