Seeking TRO vs impeachment is lawyer Torreon’s ‘house specialty’ – Ortega

Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenter5 hr. ago

Lawyer Israelito Torreon has been accused by House Deputy Speaker Paolo Ortega V of specializing in filing temporary restraining orders (TROs) to halt the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte. Ortega made the remark during a press briefing alongside other lawmakers discussing Torreon's recent petition to the Supreme Court, arguing that Senator-judge Francis Escudero should not preside over the trial. Ortega suggested that filing TROs appears to be a common practice for Torreon's legal team, calling it their 'bread and butter.' Prosecution spokesperson Zia Alonto Adiong supported Ortega's comments, stating that while individuals are free to challenge the proceedings, determining the presiding officer is an internal Senate matter. Adiong emphasized that the Senate, which includes senators acting as judges, should decide who leads the trial, noting that while the constitution may suggest Senate presidents should preside, the actual rules are defined by constitutional provisions.

Bias read (Center): The article presents multiple perspectives without overtly favoring any side. It reports on criticisms from both House Deputy Speaker Paolo Ortega V and prosecution spokesperson Zia Alonto Adiong regarding the legal strategy used by lawyer Israelito Torreon. The tone remains neutral, focusing on the

Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenter10 hr. 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

Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenter11 hr. ago

Rep. Terry Ridon, a House of Representatives prosecutor and member of the Bicol Saro party-list, has called on Vice President Sara Duterte to personally appear before the impeachment tribunal rather than relying on legal representatives. Ridon criticized Duterte's recent comments suggesting she welcomes a 'bloodbath' during her trial, arguing that she cannot expect to be involved in the process from the sidelines or through proxies. This comes after Duterte previously expressed eagerness for a 'bloodbath' during her first impeachment attempt in early 2025, though the trial was ultimately halted by the Supreme Court due to constitutional concerns raised by Duterte herself. Some supporters of Duterte's impeachment have pointed out contradictions in her stance, questioning whether her desire for a 'bloodbath' reflects a genuine willingness to confront the proceedings or an attempt to avoid accountability.

Bias read (Center): The article presents both Ridon's call for Duterte to face the trial directly and Duterte's own statements about welcoming a 'bloodbath.' It does not favor one side over the other, merely relaying their positions and the reactions of others. The framing remains balanced, avoiding overtly biased or倾向