On Thursday, October 1, 2026, the prosecution in Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment trial announced it would no longer present former Senator Antonio Trillanes IV as a witness. The decision came after lead prosecutor Gerville Luistro, a Batangas congressman, confirmed the move. Trillanes had previously requested that his name be removed from the witness list.
The impeachment trial, now in its 32nd day, has seen several developments as the prosecution builds its case against Duterte. Trillanes, a former senator known for his activism, had been scheduled to testify. His withdrawal follows a series of legal and political maneuvers in the proceedings.
This development comes amid ongoing debates over the legitimacy of the impeachment process. The Senate, which holds the power to conduct the trial, has been under pressure to deliver a verdict. The removal of Trillanes marks a shift in the prosecution’s strategy, potentially affecting the strength of its case.
The impeachment of Duterte, a daughter of former President Duterte, has sparked national discussions on accountability and the rule of law. While the trial continues, the absence of key witnesses may influence the final outcome. The Senate is expected to render its decision in the coming weeks.
