Prosecution drops sheriff punched by Sara Duterte, 5 more witnesses in impeachment trial

Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 100Objective 1008 days ago

On July 7, 2026, Michael Poa held a press briefing confirming that Vice President Sara Duterte would visit the Senate on the second day of her impeachment trial. The purpose of her visit was to meet with her legal team rather than participate directly in the trial proceedings. This update comes as part of ongoing live coverage of the impeachment process against Duterte.

Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information about the impeachment trial without overtly favoring any political side. It reports on the procedural aspect of Duterte meeting with her lawyers, which is a standard part of legal preparation, without commentary on the merits of the case or the political lean

Why these scores (Factual 100 · Objective 100): The article provides a straightforward factual update about Duterte meeting with her lawyers, without taking sides or using biased language.

Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 905 days ago

Senator-judges involved in the Senate impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte are restricted by the sub judice rule, which prohibits them from commenting on the merits of the case to maintain impartiality and public trust. This restriction was highlighted by Senate impeachment court spokesperson Atty. Regie Tongol during a press briefing. The discussion arose after Senator Robin Padilla, known for his alignment with the Duterte family, posted on Facebook about video evidence in the impeachment proceedings, emphasizing the need for 'raw' recordings rather than copies from online sources. Padilla defended his comments by referencing his experience in mass media and urged others to provide 'facts' instead of misleading information. While Tongol did not directly accuse Padilla of violating the rule, he emphasized that any determination of a breach would be made by the impeachment court itself, likely through reminders rather than formal sanctions.

Bias read (Center): The article presents both the restrictions placed on senator-judges under the sub judice rule and Senator Robin Padilla's public comments regarding the impeachment proceedings. It includes quotes from Regie Tongol, the spokesperson for the Senate impeachment court, explaining the rules and the need

Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 90): Clearly explains the sub judice rule and its implications, accurately reflecting the spokesperson's statements. Maintains a neutral tone throughout.

Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 907 days ago

Rep. Terry Ridon criticized opponents of Vice President Sara Duterte's impeachment trial for using excessive amounts of paper in their legal filings, suggesting they show 'mercy' to trees used for paper production. The criticism came during a press briefing related to the ongoing impeachment proceedings against Duterte. The petitioners, including lawyer Israelito Torreon, sought a temporary restraining order to halt the trial, arguing that the legitimacy of the June 3 session was questionable due to insufficient attendance. Ridon and others defending the trial dismissed these challenges as attempts to delay the process, emphasizing that the constitutional framework ensures the trial's continuation. They argued that the efforts to challenge the proceedings had failed thus far.

Bias read (Center): The article presents both sides of the debate regarding the impeachment trial. It includes statements from Rep. Terry Ridon criticizing the use of paper in legal filings and from Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong defending the trial's legitimacy. There is no clear ideological slant in the language or emphasis,

Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 90): Neutral summary of the press briefing with no apparent bias.

Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 907 days ago

The House prosecution panel in the Philippines has formally requested that the impeachment court issue subpoenas for the bank and tax records of Vice President Sara Duterte. These requests were submitted on July 6, 2026, and are related to the second impeachment article against Duterte, which alleges unexplained wealth. Spokesperson Regie Tongol confirmed that the impeachment court received the requests, and the defense team will have five days to respond. The financial records are expected to play a role in addressing claims of illicit enrichment.

Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information about the legal proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte without overtly favoring any political side. It reports on the procedural steps taken by the House prosecution panel and the potential implications for the impeachment case, without expressing a傾

Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 90): The article accurately describes the press briefing held by the defense team after Day 2. It remains relatively neutral but focuses on the defense's actions.

Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 908 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 95 · Objective 90): The article provides accurate information about Legarda's role and statements. It maintains a neutral tone, focusing on her comments rather than taking a stance on the trial itself.

RapplerIndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 908 days ago

The article lists several news headlines covering various topics. One headline discusses Vice President Sara Duterte's appearance at the Senate during her impeachment trial, where she did not participate in the second day of proceedings. Another mentions the prosecution summoning an NBI agent as a witness. There is also mention of Senator Chiz Escudero ordering the return of Sara Duterte's tax records to the Bureau of Internal Revenue. Additional headlines cover China testing a missile in the Pacific and George Clooney being honored at the Venice Film Festival.

Bias read (Center): The article presents multiple news items without taking a clear ideological stance. While the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte is a politically charged issue, the article does not frame the story in a biased manner. It reports on the procedural aspects of the trial, including the non

Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 90): The article provides a clear overview of the charges and the context of the impeachment trial, aligning closely with the primary source. It maintains neutrality and balance throughout the reporting.

Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 909 days ago

Vice President Sara Duterte is facing a significant political challenge as the Senate begins an impeachment trial against her. The trial, which could last several weeks, centers on allegations including corruption, bribery, constitutional violations, and betrayal of public trust. A conviction would require the support of at least two-thirds of the Senate and could result in her removal from office and a lifetime ban from public service, potentially ending her candidacy for the 2028 presidential election. The trial has become a major political event, reflecting broader tensions within the government and raising questions about the integrity of the impeachment process. Political analysts suggest that the outcome will not only affect Duterte's political future but also test the credibility of constitutional mechanisms for accountability.

Bias read (Center): The article presents the impeachment trial as a politically charged issue but does not overtly favor any particular side. It provides balanced reporting by citing both the potential consequences for Duterte and the concerns of political analysts regarding the impartiality of the Senate. There is no傾

Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 90): Directly quotes the official notice and details the charges. Neutral and factual, with no apparent editorializing.

Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 8822 hr. ago

The House prosecution in the Philippines stated that the defense failed to undermine allegations that Vice President Sara Duterte threatened President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., his wife Liza Araneta-Marcos, and former House Speaker Martin Romualdez during her November 23, 2024, media conference. Prosecution representative Rep. Terry Ridon emphasized that despite the defense focusing on discrepancies in Department of Justice documents, the core issue—the alleged threats—remained unchanged. The defense's cross-examination of witnesses centered on documentary issues rather than directly addressing the claims of threats. Ridon reiterated that the prosecution's evidence regarding the threats was unaffected by these procedural challenges.

Bias read (Center): The article reports on a legal proceeding involving high-ranking officials and does not exhibit overtly biased language or one-sided sourcing. It presents the perspectives of both the prosecution and defense, though the defense's arguments are described as focusing on procedural aspects rather than驳

Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 88): Correctly summarizes the prosecution's stance that the defense's focus on document discrepancies didn't weaken the core allegations. Remains objective in presenting the prosecution's perspective.

Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 8516 hr. ago

Lorna Kapunan, the private counsel for the prosecution in the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, expressed regret over not examining OVP Undersecretary Zuleika Lopez, who serves as Duterte's chief-of-staff. However, Kapunan stated that the decision not to call Lopez as a witness was based on the belief that it would be unnecessary and potentially prolong the trial. She emphasized that the prosecution has determined that further questioning of Lopez would be redundant, especially since other witnesses like NBI agents John Mark Calilung and Jeremy Lotoc have already provided relevant testimony regarding allegations of threats against high-profile individuals. Kapunan acknowledged her desire to challenge Lopez but ultimately concluded that proceeding with the examination would not contribute meaningfully to the case.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced account of Kapunan's reasoning for not examining Lopez, including her personal desire to challenge Lopez and the strategic decision by the prosecution to avoid redundancy. The framing remains neutral, focusing on the legal strategy rather than taking a stance on the政治

Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 85): High factual accuracy aligns with primary sources, though the article includes subjective commentary from Lorna Kapunan about wanting to examine Lopez. The tone leans slightly towards the prosecution's perspective.

Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 8520 hr. ago

The Philippine impeachment court, led by Sen. Francis 'Chiz' Escudero, is set to rule on a request from the House prosecution panel to subpoena Vice President Sara Duterte's bank and tax records on Wednesday. This decision comes during the sixth day of Duterte's impeachment trial. Both the prosecution and defense will present oral arguments regarding the subpoena request, followed by a closed-door discussion among the senator-judges. Each side will have 15 minutes to present their arguments and 10 minutes for rebuttals.

Bias read (Center): The article provides a neutral account of the legal proceedings involving the impeachment court and does not exhibit clear bias toward either the prosecution or defense. It reports on the procedural steps being taken without overtly favoring any side or using loaded language.

Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 85): The article accurately reports the decision not to present Lopez as a witness. It remains largely objective, though it quotes the prosecution's reasoning, which could subtly favor their position.

RapplerIndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 85yesterday

During the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, an NBI official named Jeremy Lotoc testified that the agency did not find evidence of threats against her life. Lotoc explained that the NBI only identified the removal of 75 personnel from her security detail as a relevant security issue. He noted that Duterte did not appear before the NBI, and thus no further information was provided. The defense had previously argued that the lack of security threats undermined the impeachment charge of grave threats against the Marcos family. However, Lotoc clarified that the term 'Romanov' was first used by Duterte's brother, Davao City Mayor Baste Duterte, in a public critique of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. The defense also raised concerns about potential bias in the NBI's investigation.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced account of the testimony from both the prosecution and defense perspectives. It reports on the NBI's findings without overtly favoring either side, though it highlights the defense's arguments regarding perceived bias. The framing remains neutral, focusing on the fact

Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 85): Factually precise about the tax records' arrival. Neutral description of the procedural steps taken by BIR and the impeachment court.

Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 856 days ago

The Senate impeachment court in the Philippines has decided to issue a subpoena to Atty. Zuleika Lopez, the Chief of Staff to Vice President Sara Duterte, regarding allegations of assassination threats made by Duterte during a press briefing. The House prosecution panel requested the subpoena for Lopez to testify about these claims. The court's spokesperson confirmed the decision, stating that the presiding officer approved the request. This development comes amid ongoing investigations into Duterte's alleged threats against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and Rep. Martin Romualdez. Prior to the press briefing where Duterte made these threats, Lopez had been cited for contempt by the House committee on good government and public accountability for interfering in proceedings.

Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information about the legal process involving Vice President Sara Duterte and does not exhibit clear bias toward either side. It reports on the actions taken by the impeachment court and includes relevant background information without apparent ideological framing.

Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 85): The article accurately describes the motion to delete from the record. It remains neutral in tone, focusing on the procedural aspects of the trial.

Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 856 days ago

Vice President Sara Duterte's chief of staff, Atty. Zuleika Lopez, has been named as a potential witness in the ongoing impeachment trial against Duterte. The prosecution plans to call Lopez alongside two others—lawyer Jeremy Lotoc of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and Capt. Belinda Bello of the House of Representatives' Office of the Sergeant-at-Arms—to testify on Article IV of the Articles of Impeachment, which charges Duterte with making 'grave threats' against high-ranking government officials. The testimony comes amid controversy surrounding Lopez's detention at the House premises in November 2024, where she was cited for contempt for allegedly interfering with an investigation into alleged misuse of confidential funds within Duterte's office. During this period, Duterte reportedly made disparaging remarks about President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., his wife Liza Araneta Marcos, and former House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez.

Bias read (Center): The article provides a factual account of the impeachment proceedings and does not exhibit clear bias toward either side. It reports on the planned testimonies and contextualizes them with relevant background information without overtly favoring the prosecution or defense.

Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 85): Accurate in describing the subpoena request for tax records. The article maintains a neutral tone, presenting the legal request without bias.

Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 857 days ago

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 regarding the NBI agent's testimony. Objectivity is slightly lower due to potential bias in the narrative around the implications of the testimony.

Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 858 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 95 · Objective 85): The article accurately summarizes the prosecution's claim about the defense's attempts to shift focus. It remains mostly objective but slightly emphasizes the prosecution's viewpoint.

RapplerIndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 80yesterday

The prosecution has decided not to call Zuleika Lopez, the Chief of Staff to Vice President Sara Duterte, as a witness in her impeachment trial. Private prosecutor Lorna Kapunan stated that it was unnecessary, as the defense had already confirmed that Duterte made threats against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and his family. Lopez was previously detained in the House of Representatives for contempt and was involved in a controversial virtual media conference where Duterte allegedly made threatening remarks. The prosecution also removed another witness, Belinda Bello, as her role was seen as redundant. Lopez's presence in the Senate and her prior detainment were highlighted as relevant to the case.

Bias read (Center): The article presents information about the legal proceedings involving Vice President Sara Duterte without overtly favoring either side. It reports on the decision of the prosecution to drop a witness and provides context around the circumstances leading to that decision, without taking a clear立场 on

Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 80): Direct quote from NBI official aligns with primary source. Neutrally reports the lack of threats found, avoiding overt bias despite the sensitive subject matter.

RapplerIndependentProgressiveFactual 95Objective 806 days ago

An article reports on the impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte, revealing that she admitted during a Zoom meeting on November 23, 2024, to instructing a hitman to assassinate President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., his wife, and his cousin. The admission was captured in a video, and despite attempts by defense lawyers to discredit the evidence, the truth could not be denied. The piece criticizes the slow judicial process while highlighting the gravity of the confession and the implications for accountability within the Duterte family.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the revelation of Sara Duterte's alleged involvement in planning assassinations as a significant political scandal, emphasizing the moral and legal implications. While presenting factual information, it uses strong language ('elephant in the room,' 'nepo baby') and highlights the矛

Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 80): Factual information matches primary sources. The article remains neutral in tone, focusing on procedural aspects of the trial without taking sides.

Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 807 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 80): The article accurately reports Duterte's brief appearance at the Senate and her statement. However, it includes commentary on her past actions and the Supreme Court's role, introducing some subjectivity.

Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 808 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 80): Accurately describes the video's role in the trial. Provides context without taking a stance on the content's interpretation.

RapplerIndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 809 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 95 · Objective 80): Facts match primary sources accurately. The article presents the defense's argument without overt bias, though it focuses on the defense's narrative.