Manila's Representative Joel Chua has proposed that the Senate Impeachment Court could assign public lawyers to Vice President Sara Duterte if the defense panel chooses to boycott the impeachment proceedings. Chua made the suggestion during a press briefing following a question about the potential for the defense team to withdraw from the trial.

The suggestion comes amid ongoing discussions about the legal strategies surrounding Duterte's impeachment. Chua also emphasized that he does not see any significant misstep in the court's decision regarding the conviction threshold. This stance aligns with his broader role as both a prosecutor and a legislative representative in the case.

The situation highlights the complex legal and political dynamics at play in the impeachment process. As the trial progresses, the role of the defense panel and the court's authority remain central points of contention. The potential for public legal representation underscores the uncertainty surrounding the trial's outcome.