Prosecution eyes sub judice motion on comments by VP Duterte, spox
Vice President Sara Duterte addresses supporters along Elliptical Road in Quezon City on September 11, 2026, after appearing before the Quezon City Regional Trial Court. Duterte was scheduled to be arraigned on three counts of grave threats, but the court deferred the arraignment to a later date. Maria Tan, ABS-CBN NewsMANILA — The prosecution plans to file a formal motion before the Senate impeachment court for “incessant violations” of the sub judice rule by Vice President Sara Duterte and her spokesperson Atty. Salvador Paolo Panelo Jr.
Private prosecutor Atty. Jay Tolosa said some of the comments are “are even contemptuous in nature” and are, he said, meant as “mind-conditioning” in case of a verdict unfavorable to Duterte.
This comes after the defense, before the trial went on a lunch break on Tuesday, called out a private prosecutor over an alleged violation of the same rule.
Tolosa however said they have yet to receive a copy of the formal motion filed by the defense.
“We’re just asking for fair application of the rules,” Tolosa added.
House prosecution spokesperson Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong, congressman for Lanao del Sur’s 1st District, also added the defense should also remind its own client to observe the rule, citing her remarks on the impeachment proceedings.
House trial adviser Ace Barbers alleged that Duterte violated the rule not just once, but “incessantly.”
As to when they will file the formal complaint, Tolosa and Adiong said that is up to the “collective decision” of the prosecution panel.