Private prosecutor calls out ‘walkout’ by Sara Duterte’s lead counsel

Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 906 days ago

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has expressed support for any actions taken by the Senate during the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, provided they remain within legal boundaries. This statement was made by Palace Press Officer Claire Castro in response to Senator Pia Cayetano's comment that the administration is 'very supportive' of the process. The situation highlights the ongoing political tensions within the Philippines regarding the impeachment proceedings against a high-ranking official.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a neutral stance by quoting both the President's support for the Senate's actions and the senator's remarks, without showing favoritism towards either side. It does not use biased language or selectively present information to sway the reader's opinion.

Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 90): Provides detailed and accurate account of the trial's progression and charges, closely matching primary sources. Maintains objective and neutral tone throughout.

Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 907 days ago

The sealed box containing Vice President Sara Duterte's tax records arrived at the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) on Tuesday. This followed an order from the Senate impeachment court to return the box after the House prosecution panel had requested to unseal it as evidence in Duterte's impeachment trial, which focused on allegations of unexplained wealth. BIR Commissioner Charlie Mendoza confirmed the box's arrival around 11:40 a.m. The box was originally subpoenaed by the House committee on justice during the impeachment hearings and had remained unsealed at the House panel hearing due to disputes over the National Revenue Code, which safeguards tax record privacy.

Bias read (Center): The article presents the event neutrally, focusing on the procedural aspects of the impeachment process and the legal framework surrounding tax record privacy. It does not take a clear ideological stance on Sara Duterte's actions or the validity of the impeachment proceedings, maintaining a balanced

Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 90): The article provides an accurate summary of the video at the center of the trial and presents the content objectively without taking sides.

RapplerIndependentCenterFactual 94Objective 876 days ago

The Philippine Supreme Court has affirmed that photocopies can be used as legal evidence, according to the Amended Rules on Evidence. This ruling was highlighted in the context of Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment trial, where the defense challenged the admissibility of certain evidence. The court clarified that the use of photocopies is permitted under existing jurisprudence and procedural rules. The article references the amended rules but does not provide further details on their implementation or implications.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a factual update on a legal ruling without overtly favoring any political side. It reports on a judicial decision related to evidentiary standards, which is a procedural matter rather than a partisan issue. The framing remains neutral, focusing on the legal interpretation rather

Why these scores (Factual 94 · Objective 87): Reports on the prosecution's perceived victory, supported by the primary source. Tone suggests support for the prosecution, affecting objectivity.

Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 92Objective 876 days ago

The Senate impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte has seen the defense's cross-examination of NBI Senior Agent John Mark Calilung postponed to Wednesday. This follows the initial plan to conduct cross-examinations on the same day Calilung testified regarding allegations of Duterte making assassination threats against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and former House Speaker Martin Romualdez. The postponement was announced by Presiding Officer Escudero, citing requests from some senators and the need to comply with subpoenas that allow for appearances on two dates. The trial, expected to last 92 days, could potentially extend into early 2027. Under the 1987 Constitution, a conviction would require a two-thirds majority vote among the senator-judges, leading to Duterte's potential removal from office and permanent disqualification from public service.

Bias read (Center): The article reports on procedural developments in a high-profile impeachment trial involving a senior political figure. It presents factual updates on scheduling changes and constitutional requirements without overtly favoring either side. The language remains neutral, focusing on legal procedures,官

Why these scores (Factual 92 · Objective 87): Neutral report on the defense team's presser, focusing on the spokesperson's comments. No significant bias detected.

RapplerIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 958 days ago

On the first day of Vice President Sara Duterte's impeachment trial, prosecutors claimed victory despite initial appearances favoring the defense. The Senate impeachment court made several rulings perceived as unfavorable to the prosecution, including maintaining the conviction threshold at 16 votes and returning a sealed box of Duterte's tax documents. Prosecutors argued these decisions were cautious rather than adverse and indicated plans to refile requests for document access. The court also rejected the prosecution's motion to read each impeachment article separately and allow the defense to plead to them individually. Defense attorney Sheila Sison criticized the motion as a misuse of judicial time.

Bias read (Center): The article presents both the prosecution's claims of victory and the defense's counterarguments without overtly favoring either side. It includes direct quotes from both sides and explains the legal procedures without apparent bias or loaded language.

Why these scores (Factual 90 · Objective 95): The article accurately reports the summons of NBI officials without taking sides or showing bias.

Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 857 days ago

Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte has announced her intention to run for president in 2028. In a recent development, Defense Spokesperson Michael Poa confirmed that Duterte will attend a meeting with her legal team in the Senate on Tuesday, though she will not participate in the impeachment trial itself. This move comes amid ongoing political developments in the Philippines, where Duterte's potential candidacy could influence future political dynamics. The announcement was made during a press conference in Mandaluyong, Metro Manila, on February 18, 2026.

Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information about Vice President Sara Duterte's plans to run for president and her decision not to attend the impeachment trial. It does not exhibit clear bias through loaded language, one-sided sourcing, or omission of context. The report includes a statement from a key

Why these scores (Factual 90 · Objective 85): Accurately reflects the Palace's response to the defense's implication of presidential influence. Maintains objectivity by quoting both the Palace press officer and the defense counsel without taking sides.

RapplerIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 709 days ago

The impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte is set to begin on July 6, focusing on allegations including misuse of funds, unexplained wealth, bribery, and threats against prominent figures. The trial, expected to span several months, involves 57 prosecution witnesses versus 96 defense witnesses. Key evidence includes a video of Duterte threatening President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and others, corroborated by NBI agents. The trial will proceed in multiple phases, with both sides preparing extensive arguments. Unresolved legal issues from pre-trial hearings will be addressed during the initial sessions.

Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information about the impeachment proceedings without overtly favoring either side. It reports on the charges, the number of witnesses, and procedural aspects without evident ideological slant. While the subject is politically charged, the framing remains balanced, with

Why these scores (Factual 90 · Objective 70): Factual but framed as a podcast episode with opinionated questions and lacks traditional news objectivity.

Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 88Objective 855 days ago

The Philippine Daily Inquirer reports that Malacañang denied that Vice President Sara Duterte's assassination threats against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and others were justified by an alleged 'Operation Romanov.' During Duterte's impeachment trial, defense counsel Mark Vinluan argued that her comments were made as a mother seeking to protect her family, not solely as a public official. Palace press officer Claire Castro emphasized that threats against the president are unacceptable regardless of the speaker's role, and stressed that Duterte's camp must provide evidence to support her claims. The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) agent John Mark Calilung described Duterte's remarks as an 'absolute threat,' highlighting the seriousness of the allegations.

Bias read (Center): While the article discusses a politically sensitive issue involving high-ranking officials and potential criminal charges, the framing remains balanced. It presents both the defense arguments (that Duterte acted as a mother protecting her family) and the government's stance (that threats against the

Why these scores (Factual 88 · Objective 85): Reports accurately on the procedural focus of the first day. Objectivity is maintained, though some phrasing suggests anticipation of controversy, which could be seen as minor bias.

Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 805 days ago

The Philippine Daily Inquirer reports that Vice President Sara Duterte is facing an impeachment trial, and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro emphasized that Duterte should personally respond to the allegations against her rather than relying solely on legal technicalities. Duterte previously stated she would be 'bloodied but unbowed' during the trial, referencing the poem 'Invictus.' Castro noted that Duterte appears to have a foundation for her statements now, though she has consistently called Duterte's criticisms of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. baseless. The article highlights the ongoing political tensions surrounding the trial.

Bias read (Center): The article presents statements from both the Palace Press Office and Vice President Duterte without overtly favoring one side. It includes direct quotes from Castro and references Duterte's remarks, providing a balanced view of the situation without apparent bias toward either the prosecution or辩护.

Why these scores (Factual 85 · Objective 80): Summary is accurate but lacks depth. Objectivity is slightly compromised by the AI-generated nature and possible oversimplification of complex legal arguments.

RapplerIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 759 days ago

The impeachment trial of Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte has begun, with the Senate acting as an impeachment court. Rappler is providing live updates, analysis, and commentary from reporters and experts throughout the trial. The trial initially runs from Monday to Wednesday for the first three weeks, then shifts to Tuesday to Thursday starting July 28. Viewers can follow real-time updates through a dedicated chat room on the Rappler app.

Bias read (Center): The article provides a neutral overview of the impeachment trial, focusing on procedural details and offering coverage from multiple perspectives without apparent ideological framing or biased language.

Why these scores (Factual 85 · Objective 75): Accurately reports on Lacson's position regarding the BIR box. Objectivity is slightly lower due to focus on political disagreement.

Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 80Objective 606 days ago

During the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, private prosecutor Amando Virgil Ligutan claimed that her lead counsel, Shiela Sison, appeared to walk out of the proceedings. This occurred while Ligutan was examining senior National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) agent John Mark Calilung, who testified about investigations into Duterte's alleged threats toward President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., his wife Liza, and former House Speaker Martin Romualdez. The incident took place during a hearing related to a November 23, 2024, online media briefing where Duterte reportedly made threatening remarks. The court was informed of the potential walkout, but the defense team has not yet confirmed whether Sison actually left the room. Calilung, part of the NBI Cybercrime Division, stated that he personally conducted investigations into Duterte's statements, including claims that she once considered beheading the president.

Bias read (Center): The article reports on an event within a high-profile impeachment trial involving a major political figure, presenting the claim made by a private prosecutor without taking a stance or using biased language. It includes both the prosecution's account and mentions the need for confirmation from the被告

Why these scores (Factual 80 · Objective 60): The article accurately describes the events of the trial and includes direct quotes from both sides. However, it contains biased language suggesting the defense team was disruptive.

Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 75Objective 706 days ago

Vice President Sara Duterte's legal team stated they were unaware of a Supreme Court petition challenging Senator Francis 'Chiz' Escudero's role in overseeing the impeachment trial. The petition was filed by Israelito Torreon and eight other lawyers associated with Duterte. The statement highlights a potential disconnect between Duterte's allies and her legal representatives regarding the legal actions being taken against Escudero. The situation underscores the complexity of political maneuvering within the impeachment process.

Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information about the legal team's lack of knowledge regarding the petition, without overtly endorsing or criticizing any side. It reports the statement from Duterte's defense counsel without adding commentary or emotional language, maintaining a balanced tone.

Why these scores (Factual 75 · Objective 70): The article accurately reports the defense team's lack of knowledge about the SC petition but does not provide enough context or supporting details from the primary source. It leans slightly towards the defense perspective.

RapplerIndependentCenterFactual 75Objective 657 days ago

Vice President Sara Duterte attended a Senate impeachment trial briefing with her legal team but chose not to participate in the formal trial proceedings. This follows her previous attempt to block the impeachment process through a Supreme Court petition, which succeeded in halting the first trial. Despite being impeached again by the House of Representatives, Duterte has avoided direct participation in the trial, citing her duties as Vice President. The impeachment focuses on allegations including financial misconduct, threats against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., and other charges. The trial continues with prosecutors set to address the specific accusations against her.

Bias read (Center): The article presents factual developments surrounding the impeachment proceedings without overtly endorsing or criticizing Duterte's actions. It reports on the procedural aspects of the trial, the legal maneuvers, and the implications of the charges without taking a clear ideological stance. The phr

Why these scores (Factual 75 · Objective 65): Factual content is somewhat aligned with the primary source but includes subjective commentary on Duterte's appearance and motivations. Objectivity is compromised by the tone suggesting skepticism about her involvement.

Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 60Objective 657 days ago

Vice President Sara Duterte addressed the media during the second day of her impeachment trial at the Senate. She expressed her resolve by stating, 'I will be bloodied but unbowed,' indicating her determination to face the proceedings despite potential challenges. The trial is taking place in Manila, Philippines, and involves legal discussions with her lawyers. This event highlights the ongoing political process within the country.

Bias read (Center): The article provides a straightforward account of Vice President Sara Duterte's statement during her impeachment trial without apparent bias. It reports her words directly and does not show favoritism toward either side of the issue.

Why these scores (Factual 60 · Objective 65): Primarily focuses on unrelated news items like Jinggoy Estrada and other stories, with minimal coverage of the impeachment trial. Factual content is sparse and lacks depth on the main event.

Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenternow

The article reports that Vice President Sara Duterte's defense team claimed her remarks regarding contracting an individual to target President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., his wife Liza Araneta-Marcos, and former House Speaker Martin Romualdez were 'not threats in the first place.' The statement was made by Duterte's legal representatives, suggesting that their comments did not constitute actual threats but rather some form of criticism or disagreement.

Bias read (Center): The article presents the defense team's assertion without overtly endorsing or criticizing the claims. It remains neutral in tone, focusing on the legal representatives' position rather than taking a clear ideological stance. There is no evident slant toward either side of the political spectrum.

Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentProgressivenow

Bicol Saro party-list representative Terry Ridon criticized Vice President Sara Duterte's legal team during the impeachment trial of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., accusing them of failing to effectively challenge claims of threats against Marcos, his wife Liza Araneta-Marcos, and former Speaker Martin Romualdez. Ridon called on the lawyers to improve their questioning of witnesses to prove that such threats did not exist. The article notes that Sara Duterte has previously maintained that the allegations of a 'kill plot' against Marcos lack supporting evidence.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the criticism of Sara Duterte's legal team as a call for more effective advocacy, implying that her position lacks sufficient support. The emphasis on the failure of the legal team to disprove threats suggests a potential bias toward the Marcos administration's narrative. While it

Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenternow

Defense counsel Mark Vinluan representing Vice President Sara Duterte stated that her remarks about contracting individuals to take down President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., his wife Liza Araneta-Marcos, and former House Speaker Martin Romualdez were 'not threats in the first place.' The comments were made during an online press briefing on November 23, 2024, where Duterte allegedly outlined a 'assassination plot' and expressed intent to avenge herself if she died. Vinluan argued that these statements were responses to a Q&A session and not directed at the named individuals. Both the prosecution's witness, NBI Regional Director Jeremy Lotoc, and House prosecution counsel Amando Ligutan cited Supreme Court rulings that do not require recipients to feel threatened for grave threats charges to be filed.

Bias read (Center): The article presents the perspectives of both the defense team and the prosecution, quoting legal arguments from both sides. While the subject involves high-profile political figures and potential criminal charges, the framing remains balanced, presenting the legal interpretations without overtly sl

RapplerIndependentCenter9 hr. ago

Vice President Sara Duterte has claimed that she faces a serious threat to her life and family, referencing a supposed operation named 'Operation Romanov.' This term appears to draw inspiration from the tragic fate of the Russian Romanov dynasty. The claim comes amid allegations of grave threats against her, though the validity of these claims remains unverified. The report by Jairo Bolledo explores whether there is any truth behind the alleged threat against the Dutertes.

Bias read (Center): The article presents the claim made by Vice President Sara Duterte regarding the alleged threat against her life and family but does not provide evidence or commentary that would indicate a clear ideological slant. It frames the situation neutrally, focusing on the existence of the claim rather than

GMA News OnlineIndependentCenteryesterday

The Philippine presidential palace has stated that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has not received any formal requests to open the tax records of Vice President Sara Duterte or former Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago, also known as Mans Carpio. This comes amid ongoing discussions and allegations regarding the financial disclosures of high-ranking officials. The palace emphasized that any such requests would need to follow proper legal procedures. No specific timeline or further details were provided by the administration regarding potential future actions on this matter.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a factual statement from the presidential palace without overtly biased language or emphasis. It does not take a stance on whether the tax records should be opened or criticize either side directly. The information is reported neutrally, focusing on the lack of formal requests.

GMA News OnlineIndependentProgressiveyesterday

The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has reportedly concluded that Sara Duterte had both the intent, motive, and capability to carry out threats against Ferdinand Marcos Jr., according to a witness cited by GMA News Online. The report suggests that the investigation into alleged threats against former President Ferdinand Marcos has identified Sara Duterte as a potential perpetrator. The claim was presented as part of ongoing legal proceedings related to the case. No specific evidence or further details were provided in the report.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the allegations against Sara Duterte in a manner that implies her involvement in threatening actions against a political figure, which could be interpreted as aligning with narratives critical of the Marcos family. While the article does not explicitly take a stance, the focus on薩