Senate Court Drops Three Impeachment Charges Against VP Duterte

The Senate impeachment court approved the prosecution's request on Tuesday to withdraw three of four articles against Vice President Sara Duterte. Presiding officer Francis Escudero confirmed the dismissal of charges covering misuse of confidential funds, bribery, and an alleged assassination plot.

The trial will now focus solely on Article 2, which accuses Duterte of amassing unexplained wealth and failing to disclose assets. Lead prosecutor Gerville Luistro stated the evidence on this count is "substantial and compelling" for removal.

“In the prosecution's assessment, concentrating on this article is the most judicious course, consistent with the evidence and our duty to the nation.”

Forensic analyst Alexander Cabrera testified that Duterte's unexplained wealth could reach 1.5 billion pesos. His testimony concluded a day before the prosecution narrowed its case.

Defense counsel Sheila Sison warned the withdrawal could constitute a mistrial by denying Duterte the chance to rebut evidence already presented publicly. She argued prosecutors cannot unilaterally limit the defense's response after witnesses have testified.

Malacañang said it respects the prosecution's strategy. A PUBLiCUS Asia survey from October 1-4 found 44% of voters expect a conviction, 31% an acquittal, and 25% are undecided.