VP Sara Duterte’s impeachment trial presents an opportunity for her to prove her innocence against all allegations, according to legal expert Fr. Ranhilio Aquino.
Fr. Aquino, Dean of the San Beda Graduate School of Law, was a member of the Consultative Committee (ConCom) formed by former President Rodrigo Duterte to review the 1987 Philippine Constitution.
He urged Duterte’s camp to take advantage of the trial to address accusations and clear her name.
Beyond her defense, Aquino emphasized that the impeachment process underscores accountability among the country’s public officials.
He stated that regardless of status or rank, any government official can be held accountable through this legal process.
Aquino also predicted that as the trial progresses, some impeachment articles against Duterte may be dropped, similar to what happened during the trial of former Chief Justice Renato Corona.
One of the allegations against Duterte involves her alleged threats to kill President Marcos, First Lady Liza Marcos, and House Speaker Martin Romualdez if she were assassinated.
While this was included as a ground for impeachment, Aquino believes it may eventually be removed.
However, he noted that the strongest charge against Duterte is the alleged misuse of confidential funds, as there are documented paper trails to support the claim.