MANILA, Philippines — Senator-Judge Panfilo “Ping” Lacson criticized the testimony of Davao City Assessor Jaime Adalin, the first witness presented by the defense team of Vice President Sara Duterte in her ongoing impeachment trial.
During Tuesday’s hearing, November 10, Lacson expressed disappointment over Adalin’s responses during his appearance before the Senate impeachment court the previous day.
“Yesterday was not a good day for the impeachment court, Mr. Presiding Officer,” Lacson said.
The senator also reminded those participating in the proceedings of the impeachment court’s authority to maintain order and discipline.
“Just a reminder to everyone that this is not an implied power of the impeachment court but an expressed power granted by such resolution,” Lacson added.
Meanwhile, Senator-Judge Vicente “Tito” Sotto III sought clarification on the possible penalties and sanctions against witnesses found to have lied under oath before the impeachment court.
“Just as a reminder and to refresh my memory, isn’t it that we have penalties and sanctions against those who lie before the impeachment court?” Sotto asked.
Presiding Officer Francis “Chiz” Escudero confirmed that witnesses who provide false testimony may face contempt proceedings and possible perjury charges.
“They may be subjected to contempt by the court, Your Honor, and in addition to that, be subjected to a case of perjury… The statements given by any witness are under oath,” Escudero explained.
The exchange came as the Senate impeachment court continued hearing evidence from Duterte’s defense team, which began presenting its witnesses on Monday, November 9.
The reminders underscored the court’s authority to hold witnesses accountable for their statements while ensuring that testimony is given under oath.
