ON
← Back to feed
Defense asks Matibag: Didn’t you take Sara Duterte’s ‘threats’ out of context?
PH🏛️ PoliticsCenter2 hr. ago

Defense asks Matibag: Didn’t you take Sara Duterte’s ‘threats’ out of context?

Vice President Sara Duterte's legal team is challenging the National Bureau of Investigation's (NBI) interpretation of her alleged threats against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., arguing that her statements were taken out of context. During the impeachment trial's ninth day, defense lawyer Mark Vinluan presented a clip of Duterte making a remark about imagining cutting Marcos' head, which the NBI is investigating as part of a broader pattern of violent behavior. NBI Director Melvin Matibag stated that law enforcement must take such statements seriously and process them, despite the defense's claim that the comments were made in jest. The impeachment court addressed the fourth article of impeachment, which includes Duterte's November 2024 press conference where she reportedly claimed to have hired a hitman to target Marcos and his family if she were killed. Authorities are also examining past incidents, including Duterte's physical altercation with a sheriff during her time as mayor of Davao City.

How each side covered it

The same event, grouped by the political lean of the outlets covering it.

How each side covered it

Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and your personalized For You feed.

Become a Supporter

Covered around the world

The same event as reported in other countries.

Covered around the world

Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and your personalized For You feed.

Become a Supporter

Claims check

Key factual claims, and how many sources assert vs dispute each.

Claims check

Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and your personalized For You feed.

Become a Supporter

Go to the primary sources (7)

The official sources this coverage is built on. Read them directly to bypass framing.

57 reports

Philippine Daily Inquirer logoPhilippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 958 days ago
WATCH: Sara Duterte’s defense team holds Day 7 trial briefing

Vice President Sara Duterte's defense team held a press briefing ahead of Day 7 of her impeachment trial. The Senate, acting as an impeachment court, is set to decide on the prosecution's request to subpoena Duterte's bank records, tax documents, and Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) records. These documents are part of the prosecution's effort to substantiate allegations of unexplained wealth against Duterte. The trial is ongoing, with updates available through the provided link.

Bias read (Center): The article provides a neutral account of the proceedings in Sara Duterte's impeachment trial, focusing on the legal process and the upcoming decision by the Senate. It does not exhibit overtly biased language, one-sided sourcing, or editorializing that would indicate a clear ideological lean.

Why factuality (95): The article accurately describes the defense team's press briefing ahead of the impeachment trial. It provides factual information about the upcoming proceedings without adding interpretation or speculation. The content is straightforward and focused on procedural updates.

Why objectivity (95): The article maintains a completely neutral tone, simply reporting on the defense team's activities without expressing any opinion or bias. It focuses solely on factual information related to the legal process.

Rappler logoRapplerIndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 908 days ago
Sara Duterte trial: Matibag says no hitman yet, but NBI has persons of interest

During the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Melvin Matibag testified that the agency is still investigating the identity of an alleged hitman hired by Duterte to assassinate President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., along with his wife and former Speaker Martin Romualdez. Matibag stated that while the NBI has 'persons of interest,' they cannot disclose their identities due to ongoing investigations and concerns for informants' safety. The prosecution linked Duterte's 2024 statement about hiring an assassin to previous remarks where she expressed fantasies of decapitating Marcos and her brother's comments about wanting Marcos' head. Evidence included a video of Duterte assaulting a sheriff in 2011 and an affidavit from a former death squad member implicating her in past extrajudicial killings. These elements aim to demonstrate a pattern of violent behavior.

Bias read (Center): The article presents factual testimony from NBI Director Melvin Matibag regarding the ongoing investigation into allegations against Vice President Sara Duterte. It reports on the legal proceedings and provides context through multiple statements and evidence, without overtly favoring any particular

Why factuality (95): The article clearly states that the impeachment court granted subpoenas for Sara Duterte’s financial records. It mentions the involvement of House Prosecutor Chel Diokno and the broader implications of the decision. The information is presented factually without embellishment or speculation.

Why objectivity (90): The article maintains a neutral tone, simply reporting the court's decision and related developments. There is no evident bias or emotional language influencing the presentation of facts.

Philippine Daily Inquirer logoPhilippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 908 days ago
Duterte impeachment trial: Senate junks bid vs AMLC report

The Senate Impeachment Court in the Philippines has dismissed the defense's objection to the prosecution's request for a subpoena of the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) report regarding Vice President Sara Duterte's financial transactions. Presiding Officer Senator-Judge Francis Escudero ruled that the AMLC's records are accessible under existing legal precedents set by the Supreme Court. He cited two landmark rulings where the Supreme Court allowed both the Sandiganbayan and Congress to subpoena AMLC reports, emphasizing that the council's mandate includes facilitating criminal prosecutions related to money laundering. Escudero argued that refusing to disclose the information would contradict the AMLC's purpose and undermine legislative oversight.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced legal analysis based on established judicial precedents. It does not take a partisan stance but explains the legal reasoning behind the Senate Impeachment Court's decision. While the subject involves high-profile politics, the framing remains objective, relying on law

Why factuality (95): The article accurately reports the Senate Impeachment Court's decision regarding the subpoena of AMLC records related to Vice President Sara Duterte. It references the Supreme Court ruling in Republic v. Sandiganbayan, showing alignment with primary sources. The article presents facts without bias,

Why objectivity (90): The tone is neutral, presenting the legal arguments and rulings without emotional language. However, the article slightly emphasizes the implications of the ruling, which might lean towards supporting judicial oversight.

Philippine Daily Inquirer logoPhilippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 858 days ago
Duterte impeachment trial day 7: Court to rule on tax, bank records

On the seventh day of Vice President Sara Duterte's impeachment trial, the Senate Impeachment Court is set to decide whether to issue a subpoena for her bank and tax records. The House prosecution panel, led by Representative Chel Diokno, argues that such documents are necessary evidence to address allegations of unexplained wealth under Article II of the impeachment complaint. Diokno referenced past cases, including the impeachment of former Chief Justice Renato Corona, to support the court's authority to examine these records for the 'whole truth' and the 'interest and welfare of the Filipino people.' Duterte's defense team, represented by lawyer Michael Poa, opposes the subpoena, claiming it would violate her privacy and serve as a 'fishing expedition' to find incriminating evidence. Despite discussions during a caucus, the senator-judges have yet to reach a decision and will continue debating the matter on Monday.

Bias read (Center): The article presents both sides of the argument regarding the subpoena for Vice President Duterte's financial records. It includes statements from the prosecution, which seeks the documents as evidence, and the defense, which objects to the subpoena on privacy grounds. The article does not exhibit a

Why factuality (95): The article provides a detailed account of the Senate impeachment court granting the subpoenas, matching the primary source document. It includes specific details about the documents requested and the rationale behind the ruling.

Why objectivity (85): The article maintains a neutral tone, reporting the court's decision without expressing personal opinion. However, it highlights the prosecution's arguments more prominently, which may suggest a slight lean towards supporting the legal process.

Rappler logoRapplerIndependentConservativeFactual 95Objective 806 days ago
Sara Duterte wants the Senate to pay for her defense team’s meals?

Vice President Sara Duterte has requested that the Philippine Senate cover the cost of meals for her legal defense team during her impeachment trial. In a letter dated July 7, she outlined three main requests: serving meals in a designated holding room, using the Office of the Vice President’s accredited caterer, and having the Senate bear the associated costs. Deputy Speaker Janette Garin criticized the request as improper, noting that the Vice President already has an office that could cover such expenses. Senator Ping Lacson, chair of the committee on accounts, expressed strong opposition, arguing that the Senate already has an accredited caterer and sufficient funds allocated for the impeachment trial through the 2025 General Appropriations Act. Defense spokesperson Michael Poa stated that the request remains pending and that no meals have been provided yet. The impeachment trial continues with 16 defense lawyers representing Duterte.

Bias read (Conservative): The article frames the Vice President's request as potentially violating government procurement laws and highlights opposition from a senator who represents a more conservative faction. While the article presents both sides (Duterte's request and the senator's counterarguments), the emphasis on the

Why factuality (95): This article provides a detailed account of the impeachment trial proceedings, including specific actions taken by Senator-judge Raffy Tulfo and the role of the buzzer. It accurately represents the events without introducing new or unsupported claims.

Why objectivity (80): The article maintains a neutral tone throughout, focusing on the procedural aspects of the trial. While it highlights Tulfo's concern about speaking time, it does not take a clear stance on whether the practice is fair or unfair.

Philippine Daily Inquirer logoPhilippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 806 days ago
Sara Duterte’s impeachment trial: Article IV highlights

The House prosecution panel has finished presenting Article IV of the impeachment case against Vice President Sara Duterte, accusing her of making grave threats against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and former Speaker Martin Romualdez. The presentation took place over nine days, though the court only spent six days directly addressing Article IV due to procedural delays. Duterte did not attend the first day of the trial, relying solely on her legal team to represent her. On the second day, Duterte unexpectedly arrived at the Senate but did not participate in the trial itself, instead meeting with her lawyers and delivering a defiant statement to reporters. The prosecution cited a November 2024 press conference where Duterte allegedly revealed a 'kill plot,' and presented forensic evidence from the NBI to authenticate video footage.

Bias read (Center): The article provides a balanced account of the impeachment proceedings, detailing both the prosecution's arguments and Duterte's absence and actions. It includes direct quotes from both sides and does not exhibit overtly biased language or selective sourcing.

Why factuality (95): The article provides a detailed account of the debate between the defense and prosecution regarding the term 'mini trial.' It accurately represents the arguments made by both sides and aligns with the information presented in other articles.

Why objectivity (80): The article remains largely objective, presenting both perspectives without overtly favoring either side. It avoids emotional language and sticks to the facts of the courtroom exchange.

Rappler logoRapplerIndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 806 days ago
Defense asks Matibag: Didn’t you take Sara Duterte’s ‘threats’ out of context?

Vice President Sara Duterte's legal team is challenging the National Bureau of Investigation's (NBI) interpretation of her alleged threats against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., arguing that her statements were taken out of context. During the impeachment trial's ninth day, defense lawyer Mark Vinluan presented a clip of Duterte making a remark about imagining cutting Marcos' head, which the NBI is investigating as part of a broader pattern of violent behavior. NBI Director Melvin Matibag stated that law enforcement must take such statements seriously and process them, despite the defense's claim that the comments were made in jest. The impeachment court addressed the fourth article of impeachment, which includes Duterte's November 2024 press conference where she reportedly claimed to have hired a hitman to target Marcos and his family if she were killed. Authorities are also examining past incidents, including Duterte's physical altercation with a sheriff during her time as mayor of Davao City.

Bias read (Center): The article presents both the defense's argument that the Vice President's statements were taken out of context and the NBI's stance that such statements must be taken seriously. It does not exhibit clear bias toward either side but rather reports on the legal proceedings and arguments being made.

Why factuality (95): The article accurately reports on the prosecution's completion of the grave threats case and the testimony of NBI Director Melvin Matibag. It correctly summarizes the legal proceedings and the evidence presented, staying true to the factual details of the trial.

Why objectivity (80): The article maintains a neutral tone, providing a factual account of the proceedings without overt bias. However, it slightly emphasizes the prosecution's success in proving its case, which could be seen as a minor editorial tilt.

Rappler logoRapplerIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 956 days ago
FACT CHECK: Video of VP Sara arguing with Escudero over impeachment is AI-generated

An AI-generated video falsely claims that Vice President Sara Duterte argued with Senator Francis 'Chiz' Escudero during her impeachment trial. The video, shared on Facebook by the page 'Kapampatut', shows Duterte responding to accusations of avoiding the trial, with dialogue suggesting personal conflict. Multiple AI detection tools, including DetectVideo AI and Hive Detect, flagged the video as highly likely AI-generated, with probabilities ranging from 64% to 99.6%. The video lacks any disclaimer indicating it is AI-created. Official records confirm that Duterte did not attend the impeachment proceedings in person, and Escudero, acting as presiding officer, has been overseeing the trial since July 6. The impeachment process is ongoing, with Duterte represented by her legal team.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a factual correction regarding an AI-generated video, without overtly endorsing or criticizing either side. It provides evidence from AI detection tools and official records, maintaining neutrality in its presentation of the issue.

Why factuality (90): The article clearly identifies the video as AI-generated and explains why the claimed confrontation between VP Duterte and Senator Escudero did not occur. It cites AI detection tools and lacks any credible evidence supporting the video's authenticity, aligning with the cross-source consensus that th

Why objectivity (95): The article maintains a highly objective tone, focusing solely on presenting the findings of AI detection tools and the lack of credible sources. It avoids emotional language and presents the information in a balanced, factual manner without taking sides.

Philippine Daily Inquirer logoPhilippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 958 days ago
Prosecution: We won’t meddle in Matibag’s issues with senator-judges

The prosecution panel in the Philippines has stated that it will not interfere in disputes involving National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Melvin Matibag and senator-judges. The panel emphasized that their focus is solely on Matibag's testimony regarding the investigation into Vice President Sara Duterte's alleged threats against high-profile figures. These threats reportedly occurred during a November 23, 2024 online press briefing. The panel clarified that while they expect Matibag to provide information related to the NBI's preliminary investigation, they will not address internal conflicts between Matibag and senator-judges. This comes amid reports of tensions between Matibag and Senator-judge Alan Peter Cayetano, who became Senate President in May 2026.

Bias read (Center): The article presents the statements of the prosecution panel without overtly favoring either side. It provides direct quotes from representatives of the prosecution and does not include biased language or selective sourcing. The content focuses on the legal process and the scope of the investigation

Why factuality (90): The article accurately reports Rep. Chel Diokno's reaction to the subpoena ruling, emphasizing it as a victory for the people. This aligns closely with the primary source documents, which highlight the significance of the subpoena vote.

Why objectivity (95): The article maintains a highly neutral tone, presenting Diokno's perspective without bias. It emphasizes the public interest aspect of the ruling, maintaining balance.

Philippine Daily Inquirer logoPhilippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 958 days ago
Marcoleta asks impeachment court to recognize his vote

Senator Rodante Marcoleta has requested that the Senate impeachment court recognize his vote in the ongoing impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte. This request comes amid a discussion of procedural rules established during the previous impeachment trial of former President Joseph Estrada, which reportedly allowed senators unable to attend in person to submit their votes. Senator-Judge Chiz Escudero confirmed receiving Marcoleta's letter but noted that the issue involves amending the rules of the impeachment court, which falls under the jurisdiction of the Senate as a legislative body. Escudero stated that the Senate would need to decide on the matter, and the court would follow the Senate's ruling. Meanwhile, Marcoleta is currently incarcerated due to non-bailable plunder charges.

Bias read (Center): The article presents the situation objectively, focusing on procedural discussions within the impeachment process without overtly favoring either side. It includes quotes from both Marcoleta and Escudero, providing balanced perspectives on the legal and procedural aspects of the case.

Why factuality (90): The article factually addresses the false claim about a new impeachment complaint against President Marcos. It references the dismissal of previous complaints in February 2026 and the one-year immunity rule. The content is aligned with the primary source documents and provides clear context.

Why objectivity (95): The article is highly objective, clearly stating the rating of 'FALSE' and providing reasons for the fact-check. It avoids biased language and presents the information neutrally.

Philippine Daily Inquirer logoPhilippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 909 days ago
Marcos trust rating drops to record-low 34%; Duterte steady at 57%

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s trust rating has dropped to a record low of 34% in the second quarter of 2026, according to a survey by the Social Weather Stations (SWS), commissioned by think tank Stratbase Group. This marks a significant decline from his previous ratings and represents the lowest level of public trust since July 2024. Meanwhile, Vice President Sara Duterte maintains a higher level of public confidence, with 57% expressing 'much trust' in her leadership, resulting in a net trust rating of +30, classified as 'good' by SWS standards. The survey highlights growing dissatisfaction among Filipinos, particularly regarding economic issues such as inflation, as indicated by a related article titled 'Dissatisfaction over inflation'. These findings come ahead of Marcos' upcoming State of the Nation Address.

Bias read (Center): The article presents factual data from a survey without overtly favoring either political figure. It reports on the declining trust in President Marcos and the relatively stable trust in Vice President Duterte, using neutral language and citing the survey as the primary source. There is no evident倾向

Why factuality (90): The article accurately summarizes the public opinion polls and provides detailed context about the SWS and Pulse Asia surveys. It aligns closely with the primary source document and presents the data objectively.

Why objectivity (90): The tone is neutral and informative, presenting the data without subjective interpretation or emotional language, keeping the focus on the facts.

Philippine Daily Inquirer logoPhilippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 856 days ago
Lacson confirms OVP catering request; Poa says Senate isn’t paying

Senator Panfilo Lacson confirmed that the Office of the Vice President (OVP) requested Senate funding for catering during Vice President Sara Duterte's impeachment trial. However, the defense team's spokesperson, Michael Poa, stated that the request does not seem to have been approved. Poa declined to comment further on the July 7 letter, which reportedly asked the Senate to cover the costs of food and beverages for the defense team, support staff, and witnesses. Lacson noted that while the initial letter was authentic, a follow-up communication appeared to modify its content. He expressed concerns that the request might violate government procurement laws, as the Senate already has its own caterer selected through a competitive bidding process. The OVP argued that using its accredited caterer was necessary for security reasons.

Bias read (Center): The article presents both sides of the issue: Senator Lacson confirming the OVP's request and Michael Poa stating the request was not granted. It includes quotes from both parties and provides context regarding the potential legal implications of the request. There is no evident bias toward either政治

Why factuality (90): The article accurately reports on the dispute regarding Senate funding for catering during the impeachment trial, citing statements from both the defense counsel and Senator Lacson. It provides clear sourcing and maintains alignment with the primary source document's context.

Why objectivity (85): The article presents both sides of the argument fairly, quoting defense counsel and Senator Lacson. While there is some tension in the discussion, the tone remains balanced and objective.

Philippine Daily Inquirer logoPhilippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 857 days ago
No Matibag – Cayetano fireworks on Day 8 of Sara Duterte impeach trial

On the eighth day of Vice President Sara Duterte's impeachment trial, NBI Director Melvin Matibag testified as the prosecution's final witness regarding allegations of grave threats against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and other officials. The Cayetano siblings, Senate Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano and Senator Pia Cayetano, were present but did not request recognition during the initial hours of Matibag's testimony. Cayetano left his seat early, interacting with Senator Robinhood Padilla before departing, and remained absent for over an hour and a half. Presiding Officer Sen. Francis Escudero warned Matibag against commenting on the senator-judges' proceedings. This follows prior tensions between the Cayetanos and Matibag, including accusations of intimidation related to an investigation into the 2019 Southeast Asian Games. Other senator-judges left their seats during the testimony but returned for the defense's cross-examination.

Bias read (Center): The article presents factual observations about the behavior of the Cayetano siblings during the testimony without overtly criticizing or praising either side. It reports on procedural aspects of the impeachment trial and historical tensions without taking a clear ideological stance. While the topic

Why factuality (90): The article accurately reports on the prosecution's stance regarding Matibag's disputes with senator-judges, citing official statements and legal context. It aligns with the primary source document.

Why objectivity (85): The tone is neutral, but it highlights the prosecution's focus on the case, which may subtly frame the situation in a particular light.

Rappler logoRapplerIndependentProgressiveFactual 90Objective 857 days ago
Hearsay? Defense questions Matibag’s knowledge of Sara Duterte’s ‘threats’

During a legal proceeding involving Vice President Sara Duterte, her defense team challenged the credibility of National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Melvin Matibag. The defense argued that Matibag lacks personal knowledge of the first part of the NBI's investigation into allegations of grave threats made by Duterte against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and his family. Defense lawyers highlighted that Matibag was not involved in the initial investigation and therefore cannot provide firsthand accounts, labeling such testimony as 'hearsay.' They emphasized that witnesses should only testify based on their personal knowledge, citing Section 22 of Rule 130 of the amended rules on evidence. The defense's strategy aimed to undermine Matibag's credibility and suggest potential bias, similar to tactics used in previous impeachment trials.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the defense's challenge to Matibag's credibility as a legitimate legal argument, emphasizing transparency and due process. While the subject involves a high-profile political figure, the framing leans toward supporting the defense's position, suggesting skepticism toward the NBI's

Why factuality (90): The article provides detailed account of the testimony of Melvin Matibag, referencing the legal standards and procedures. It accurately describes the NBI's dual investigations and the defense's challenge to the credibility of the evidence. The article cites relevant legal sections and maintains fact

Why objectivity (85): The article presents both sides of the argument fairly, quoting defense and prosecution perspectives. The language remains objective, avoiding emotional bias or overt advocacy for either side.

Philippine Daily Inquirer logoPhilippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 858 days ago
Defense team on granting of subpoena: Expected, not a huge setback

The defense team of Vice President Sara Duterte expressed that the Senate impeachment court's decision to issue subpoenas for her financial and tax records was expected and not a significant setback. The decision came during the seventh day of the impeachment trial, where the court granted the prosecution's request. Defense spokesperson Michael Poa stated that while the defense had strong reasons to oppose the subpoenas, they were prepared for such a development. He emphasized that the team would decide whether to pursue legal remedies, including appealing to the Supreme Court, after internal discussions. Senator-Judge Francis Escudero noted that receiving the subpoena does not ensure compliance or disclosure of the records in the proceedings.

Bias read (Center): The article presents the defense team's perspective without overtly criticizing or praising either side. It reports on the procedural developments in the impeachment trial and includes quotes from both the defense spokesperson and the presiding senator-judge. There is no clear ideological slant infr

Why factuality (90): The article accurately reports the defense's response to the subpoena ruling, quoting their spokesperson directly. It aligns precisely with the primary source and provides clear context about the legal implications of the ruling.

Why objectivity (85): The article presents the defense's position objectively, avoiding emotional language or biased framing. It focuses on factual reporting and quotes directly from the defense spokesperson without editorializing.

Philippine Daily Inquirer logoPhilippine Daily InquirerIndependentProgressiveFactual 90Objective 858 days ago
Cendaña: Duterte will be convicted 100 percent on evidence alone

Akbayan Party-list Representative Perci Cendaña asserted that Vice President Sara Duterte will be convicted in her impeachment hearings based solely on evidence, citing inconsistencies in her financial disclosures. Cendaña emphasized the need for transparency, urging the Senate to release evidence to ensure accountability. The impeachment court is set to decide on a subpoena request for Duterte's bank and tax records, which the prosecution claims relate to allegations of unexplained wealth. Proponents of the impeachment, including Akbayan and other groups, have gathered outside the Senate to demand transparency, while Senator-judges will review the subpoena requests before voting on them.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the impeachment proceedings as a matter of truth and accountability, emphasizing the need for transparency and public access to evidence. It highlights the left-leaning Akbayan Party-list representative's confidence in conviction based on evidence, and portrays the opposition to a

Why factuality (90): The article accurately reports on the ongoing impeachment trial, mentioning the Senate's procedural decision and the significance of the ruling. It quotes Jay Tolosa emphasizing that public approval does not exempt officials from accountability, which aligns with the legal principles outlined in the

Why objectivity (85): The article maintains a balanced tone, presenting the arguments of the prosecution without taking a clear stance. It avoids emotional language and focuses on the legal rationale behind the proceedings.

Philippine Daily Inquirer logoPhilippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 805 days ago
Octa: 71% of Filipinos want law, evidence to guide Sara Duterte trial

A survey by Octa Research indicates that 71% of Filipino adults believe the Senate impeachment court's decision regarding Vice President Sara Duterte should be based solely on law and evidence presented during her trial, rather than political considerations. Conducted between July 4 and 11, 2026, the survey included 1,200 respondents and found that 21% believed political factors should play the most significant role. The survey highlighted regional differences, with the National Capital Region showing the highest support for legal and evidential basis at 77%, while Visayas and Mindanao had lower percentages. The survey did not ask participants whether Duterte should be convicted or acquitted but focused on what should influence the senators' decisions. The findings reflect public expectations for institutional fairness and due process.

Bias read (Center): The article presents survey data objectively, highlighting public opinion without overtly favoring any side. It emphasizes the preference for legal and evidential basis over political considerations, which reflects public sentiment rather than an explicit endorsement of either approach. The framing,

Why factuality (90): The article accurately reports on the potential legal action against Vice President Duterte following the NBI's investigation. It correctly outlines the separation between the NBI probe and the Senate impeachment trial, maintaining factual consistency with the legal processes described in the primar

Why objectivity (80): The article presents the information in a neutral tone, focusing on the legal possibilities and the distinction between investigations and impeachment proceedings. However, it slightly emphasizes the seriousness of the allegations, which could be seen as a minor editorial lean.

Philippine Daily Inquirer logoPhilippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 806 days ago
Only threat, not ‘hitman,’ matters in VP Senate trial – prosecutor

In a Senate impeachment trial against Vice President Sara Duterte, prosecutors emphasized that identifying the alleged 'hitman' mentioned in her controversial remarks is not a prerequisite for the trial. Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong, a House prosecution spokesperson, clarified that the trial focuses on determining Duterte's fitness and accountability in office under Article 4 of the impeachment charges, which accuse her of betraying public trust through her public statements. He noted that the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI)'s ongoing probe into the identity of the individual Duterte allegedly discussed is a separate legal matter. Adiong stated that the NBI's ability to identify the person is not relevant to the impeachment proceedings, which aim to assess Duterte's conduct rather than establish criminal guilt. He warned that the NBI might only confirm the identity of the individual after the Senate trial concludes.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced perspective by quoting the prosecution's stance without overtly criticizing or praising the accused. It explains both the impeachment process and the NBI's separate investigation, avoiding biased language or selective emphasis. The framing remains neutral, focusing on

Why factuality (90): The article provides clear information about the prosecution's position and clarifies the distinction between the NBI investigation and the impeachment trial. It references the primary source document and presents the arguments in line with the ongoing trial details.

Why objectivity (80): While the article presents the prosecution's argument, it does so in a neutral manner, explaining the legal distinctions without overtly taking sides. There is minimal emotional language.

Rappler logoRapplerIndependentProgressiveFactual 90Objective 806 days ago
Sara Duterte trial: Prosecution wraps up grave threats case

The prosecution in the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte concluded its presentation of the fourth impeachment article, which alleges she made grave threats against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. The testimony of NBI Director Melvin Matibag, along with other witnesses, aimed to establish the authenticity of Duterte's threatening remarks during a virtual press conference and argue they constituted a genuine threat rather than a conditional statement. The defense countered that Duterte's threat was justified under certain circumstances, while the prosecution emphasized her admission of hiring an assassin as incriminating. The NBI has not yet identified the alleged hitman, and Matibag suggested that Duterte's comments, combined with remarks from her brother, indicate a potential plan to assassinate Marcos.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the impeachment proceedings as a legitimate legal process, emphasizing the seriousness of the allegations against Duterte. It highlights the prosecution's efforts to present credible evidence, including testimonies from NBI officials and video evidence, suggesting a focus on the '

Why factuality (90): The article accurately reports on the objection raised by Padilla regarding audience interruptions during the trial. It correctly captures the procedural issue and the context of the trial, aligning with the legal framework described in the primary source.

Why objectivity (80): The article presents the incident in a neutral tone, focusing on the procedural concern without taking sides. However, it slightly emphasizes the disruption caused by the audience, which could be interpreted as a minor editorial lean.

Philippine Daily Inquirer logoPhilippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 807 days ago
VP Duterte’s bank docs may reveal more than AMLC reports – de Lima

Rep. Leila de Lima, a member of the House prosecution panel, stated that the bank records of Vice President Sara Duterte, which the Senate impeachment court will subpoena, could provide a more comprehensive financial picture than the transaction summaries previously submitted by the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC). De Lima emphasized the importance of obtaining complete records to investigate all relevant transactions involving Duterte and her husband, lawyer Manasas Carpio. The AMLC had identified P6.7 billion in alleged suspicious transactions dating back to Duterte's time as Davao City vice mayor. The House prosecution aims to examine individual deposits, withdrawals, and transfers to understand the nature of these funds. De Lima noted that while the banks generated the initial reports, they will need to verify the records directly. The records are expected to clarify the couple's combined financial situation and potentially reveal more detailed information than the initial summaries.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced discussion of the potential implications of the subpoenaed financial records without overtly favoring any political side. It focuses on the procedural aspects of the investigation and the expectations of the House prosecution panel, without taking a clear ideological,

Why factuality (90): The article accurately reports the plan for the House prosecution to present LandBank executives as witnesses, referencing the amount of confidential funds and the timeline for the testimony. It aligns with the primary source document and provides additional context without fabricating new informati

Why objectivity (80): The article is largely neutral, presenting the prosecution's plans without taking a clear stance. However, it emphasizes the significance of the testimony, which could be interpreted as subtly supporting the prosecution's narrative. The tone remains professional but slightly leans toward highlightin

Keep the news honest.

ObjectiveNews is reader-funded and ad-free — we show you the bias instead of hiding it. Support independent journalism for €5/month.

Become a Supporter

Related stories