Palace rejects Sara Duterte’s call to stop ‘politicking’

Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 97Objective 872 days ago

During the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, a two-minute excerpt from a November 2025 press conference was shown, in which Duterte allegedly threatened President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos, and Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez with death if anything happened to her. The clip was presented by prosecutors under the direction of Presiding Judge Sen. Francis Escudero, who permitted the limited playback despite objections from Duterte's legal team. Defense attorney Carlo Joaquin Narvasa argued that the full two-hour video was needed to provide proper context for Duterte's comments, but the court ruled that only the relevant portion would be shown at this stage. The defense was informed they could later present the rest of the video during their case.

Bias read (Center): The article presents the facts of the impeachment trial neutrally, quoting both the prosecution and defense arguments regarding the video's relevance and context. It does not favor either side, merely relaying the legal proceedings and the reasoning behind the court's decision to limit the video's播放

Why these scores (Factual 97 · Objective 87): Correctly reports the playback of the video clip and the defense's objection. Provides context about the content of the video without embellishment.

Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 85yesterday

During the trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, a prosecution witness, NBI agent John Mark Calilung, testified that he had no personal knowledge of the alleged hitman she was accused of hiring. Calilung stated he only became aware of Duterte's alleged threats after reviewing an online media briefing on November 23, 2024. During cross-examination, defense counsel questioned whether Calilung had any personal knowledge of the alleged assassin, to which he responded negatively. However, when asked by Senator-judge Bam Aquino, Calilung clarified that his investigation was limited to examining the video evidence. The testimony highlights ongoing legal proceedings and challenges in establishing concrete evidence regarding Duterte's alleged involvement in the case.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced account of the testimony without overtly favoring either side. It reports the witness's admission of lacking personal knowledge of the alleged hitman and includes both prosecution and defense interactions. There is no clear ideological slant in the framing or emphasis

Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 85): Factual accuracy is high, aligning with the primary source document about the testimony of NBI agent John Mark Calilung. Objectivity is slightly lower due to potential bias in interpreting the implications of the testimony.

Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 852 days ago

During the trial of Senator Francis Escudero, the House prosecution presented a 2-minute clip from a longer video allegedly showing Vice President Sara Duterte making an assassination threat against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., his wife Liza Araneta-Marcos, and former House Speaker Martin Romualdez. The defense has the opportunity to present the full video as part of their evidence. The incident highlights ongoing legal proceedings involving high-profile political figures in the Philippines.

Bias read (Center): The article presents the event as a legal proceeding without overtly favoring any side. It reports on both the prosecution's action and the defense's potential counteraction, maintaining a balanced tone. There is no clear ideological slant in the framing or language used.

Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 85): High factual alignment with the primary source, accurately reporting the 2-minute clip presented by the prosecution. Objectivity is good, though some emotional language is used in describing the video.

Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 853 days ago

Two officials from the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), Lawyer Jeremy Lotoc and John Mark Calilung, have been named as the first witnesses to testify during the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte. The Senate impeachment court began issuing subpoenas on Monday, with presiding officer Senator-judge Francis Escudero overseeing the process. The prosecution panel, representing the House of Representatives, requested the subpoenas, which were supported by legal motions citing the need for the testimonies to address allegations under Article IV of the impeachment articles. Duterte's legal team argued they were not provided copies of the subpoena requests, making it difficult to object. The court acknowledged the lack of prior objection but invited the defense to raise any concerns now.

Bias read (Center): The article presents factual procedural developments in the impeachment trial without overtly favoring either side. It reports on the legal process, including the prosecution's request for subpoenas and the defense's objection to the lack of prior notice. There is no clear ideological slant in the报道

Why these scores (Factual 90 · Objective 85): Factually sound with clear reporting on the prosecution's witnesses. Objectivity is strong as it provides a concise summary without bias.

Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 8020 hr. ago

The prosecution team in Vice President Sara Duterte's impeachment trial anticipates a more contentious week as they prepare to hear testimony from Duterte's chief of staff, Atty. Zuleika Lopez. Defense lawyers have previously objected to the testimony of a National Bureau of Investigation agent who authenticated a video showing Duterte threatening President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and his family. Prosecutors plan to call Lopez, along with other witnesses, to testify about the circumstances surrounding Duterte's expletive-laden online briefing in November 2024, which has become key evidence in the case. Duterte faces multiple charges, including subverting the constitutional order, undermining democratic norms, misusing confidential funds, amassing unexplained wealth, and bribing officials. To secure a conviction, prosecutors require the votes of at least two-thirds of the Senate.

Bias read (Center): The article provides a balanced account of the ongoing impeachment trial against Vice President Sara Duterte, presenting the perspectives of both the prosecution and the defense. It does not exhibit overtly biased language, one-sided sourcing, or editorializing. The focus is on the procedural steps,

Why these scores (Factual 90 · Objective 80): The article provides detailed information about the upcoming testimony of Duterte's chief of staff and the expected challenges from the defense. It remains largely neutral in tone, though some framing of the prosecution's expectations may imply bias.

Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 88Objective 852 days ago

The prosecution team in Vice President Sara Duterte's impeachment trial expressed satisfaction with their progress on the second day of proceedings. They emphasized that evidence related to allegations of Duterte making grave threats against government officials was accepted by the Senate Impeachment Court. Public prosecutors highlighted the effectiveness of private counsel Amando Virgil Ligutan, who questioned NBI investigators about Duterte's alleged threats during an online press briefing in November 2024. The prosecution noted that the court treated both sides fairly, ensuring transparency and impartiality. The trial continued with the presentation of evidence and witnesses, maintaining the momentum established on the first day.

Bias read (Center): The article reports on the prosecution's perspective of the impeachment trial without overtly favoring either side. It includes direct quotes from prosecution representatives and acknowledges the court's fairness, presenting the situation objectively without biased language or selective sourcing.

Why these scores (Factual 88 · Objective 85): Factual information matches the primary source, focusing on the prosecution's satisfaction. Objectivity is maintained with minimal emotional language.

Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 802 days ago

Senator Loren Legarda, a veteran participant in multiple impeachment trials, emphasized that the ongoing impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte is more than just a legal procedure—it tests judgment, conscience, and institutional duty. She stressed that the process must remain focused on evidence and constitutional principles rather than political divisions or personal attacks. Legarda highlighted the importance of adhering to the constitutional framework established by the framers of the 1987 Constitution, warning that deviations could undermine the legitimacy of the trial. She noted that the Supreme Court is currently reviewing challenges related to the Senate’s procedures in the trial. The impeachment court will continue its sessions through July 22 before resuming on July 28.

Bias read (Center): The article presents Senator Legarda's statements neutrally, focusing on her emphasis on constitutional adherence and impartiality in the impeachment trial. There is no overtly biased language, one-sided sourcing, or omission of context. The framing remains balanced, reflecting Legarda's concerns as

Why these scores (Factual 85 · Objective 80): Factual information about the first witnesses called. Objectivity is maintained by reporting the procedural steps without taking sides.

Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 75yesterday

Philippine Palace press officer Claire Castro raised concerns about Senator Pia Cayetano's apparent difficulty breathing during the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte. During a press briefing, Castro asked Cayetano how she was feeling, noting that she seemed out of breath when speaking, possibly due to excitement, anxiety, or another reason. The remarks came after Cayetano commented on Malacañang's support for the Senate majority bloc. This occurred amid ongoing political tensions surrounding the impeachment proceedings against Vice President Duterte.

Bias read (Center): The article presents Castro's comments neutrally, focusing on her expression of concern for Cayetano's health without overtly favoring either side of the political spectrum. There is no clear ideological framing or biased language, and the content remains focused on the observed behavior rather than

Why these scores (Factual 85 · Objective 75): The article accurately reports Castro's concerns about Cayetano's breathing during the impeachment trial. However, it does not provide enough context about the nature of the trial or the broader political implications, which could affect completeness.

RapplerIndependentCenterFactual 80Objective 856 days ago

The prosecution team in the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte plans to start its case by calling witnesses from the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and the House of Representatives. The witnesses include NBI Regional Director Jeremy Lotoc and Senior Agent John Mark Calilung, who previously testified that Duterte had contacted an assassin and that a video of her threatening the president was authentic. The testimony relates to the fourth article of impeachment, alleging Duterte committed high crimes and betrayal of public trust over her alleged assassination threats. The defense has also listed these witnesses, indicating the case will involve both sides. The trial is set to begin in early July, following a prior clarification hearing in April.

Bias read (Center): The article presents the prosecution's planned witnesses and their testimonies without overtly favoring either side. It includes quotes from both the prosecution and mentions the defense's inclusion of the same witnesses, suggesting a balanced approach. The framing remains neutral, focusing on the事实

Why these scores (Factual 80 · Objective 85): Factual accuracy is good as it covers the opening statement by the defense counsel. Objectivity is strong as it reports the event neutrally.

RapplerIndependentCenterFactual 80Objective 753 days ago

Vice President Sara Duterte's defense team challenged the allegations against her during the opening of her impeachment trial. They argued that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s administration approved the release of confidential funds requested by Duterte's office. The defense highlighted that the Department of Budget and Management recommended the approval, which was subsequently endorsed by the Office of the President. The funds, totaling P612.5 million, were reportedly released to the Office of the Vice President in December 2022 despite the end of the fiscal year. The impeachment case centers around the alleged misuse of these funds, with the House of Representatives accusing Duterte of constitutional violations, graft, and betrayal of public trust.

Bias read (Center): The article presents both the allegations against Vice President Sara Duterte and her defense's counterarguments without overtly favoring either side. It includes direct quotes from the defense counsel and references the official approval process by the presidential administration, providing a sembl

Why these scores (Factual 80 · Objective 75): Reports on the defense's stance without providing full context of the accusations. Suggestive language implies the impeachment is politically motivated.

RapplerIndependentCenterFactual 80Objective 756 days ago

This article discusses the controversy surrounding the Philippine Senate's handling of two major issues: flood control scandals and the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte. Critics argue that the Senate majority is prioritizing the impeachment trial over investigating flood control corruption, which has raised concerns about potential distractions from critical governance issues. Senator Erwin Tulfo, who leads the blue ribbon committee investigating the flood control scandals, is highlighted as being placed in a high-stakes role early in his Senate career. The article sets up a discussion on whether these two issues need to be addressed separately or if they are interconnected, with a special episode of 'In the Public Square' planned to explore these questions further.

Bias read (Center): The article presents both sides of the debate without overtly favoring one perspective. It raises questions about the Senate's priorities but does not explicitly endorse either the critics' claims or the Senate's actions. The framing remains balanced, focusing on presenting the controversy rather th

Why these scores (Factual 80 · Objective 75): Factual information is relevant but includes rhetorical questions and opinions. Objectivity is slightly affected by the tone and intent of the comments.

Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 80Objective 7020 hr. ago

In the ongoing impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, prosecution panel spokesperson Robert Ace Barbers argued that it is implausible for someone intending to hire an assassin to formalize such a contract in writing. During a press briefing, Barbers questioned the logic of signing a contract that could potentially be used against the individual, suggesting that such contracts are unlikely to exist. He further humorously raised the idea of suing for breach of contract if the assassination plan failed. House Representative Bel Zamora supported this view, stating that any contract involving illegal activities would automatically be void under the law. Duterte's supporters have challenged the allegations, claiming there is no evidence that she hired an assassin to target the Marcos family and other officials. The trial continued with the defense questioning NBI Senior Agent John Mark Calilung about his knowledge of the alleged hitman.

Bias read (Center): The article presents arguments from both the prosecution and Duterte's supporters, offering perspectives from multiple sides without overtly favoring one over the other. It includes quotes from opposing viewpoints and does not exhibit biased language or selective sourcing.

Why these scores (Factual 80 · Objective 70): The article accurately quotes Barbers' comments on the implausibility of a written contract for assassination. However, it leans slightly into rhetorical questions and humor, which may reduce objectivity.

Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentConservativenow

The Philippine presidential palace has rejected Vice President Sara Duterte's call for government officials to cease 'politicking' and prioritize national service over personal interests. Duterte had urged officials to focus on peace and order and improving citizens' lives, while also criticizing the use of transparency and accountability as tools for self-serving agendas. Palace press officer Claire Castro countered by accusing Duterte of encouraging her allies to spread misinformation and engage in political maneuvering to undermine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s administration and position herself as a potential future president. Castro emphasized that transparency and accountability are constitutional duties, and the impeachment trial of Duterte is a legitimate constitutional process. The Palace also criticized Duterte for being absent during much of her trial and questioned her contributions to national development compared to President Marcos.

Bias read (Conservative): The article frames Vice President Sara Duterte's calls for officials to avoid 'politicking' as hypocritical, suggesting she encourages others to engage in political maneuvering to undermine the president. The Palace's response emphasizes constitutional duties and criticizes Duterte's absence from a

RapplerIndependentCenter8 hr. ago

Senator Jinggoy Estrada's request to attend the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte was denied by the Sandiganbayan's 5th Division. The court ruled that Estrada's motion lacked merit and highlighted his ongoing suspension due to a graft case. Estrada argued that his presence as a senator-judge could justify a temporary leave from detention. However, the court emphasized that his suspension under the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act is separate from his status as a detainee. Estrada faces multiple charges including plunder and graft related to alleged irregularities in flood control funding, with the Office of the Ombudsman claiming he received P573 million through these schemes. This is the third time Estrada has faced plunder charges, having previously been acquitted in similar cases in 2001 and 2014.

Bias read (Center): The article presents the court's decision and Estrada's arguments neutrally, without evident bias toward either side. It provides background on the legal proceedings and Estrada's history with graft cases, maintaining a balanced perspective.