THE House prosecution panel has formally requested the Senate Impeachment Court to issue subpoenas compelling Vice President Sara Duterte’s chief of staff, Atty. Zuleika Lopez and National Bureau of Investigation Director Melvin Matibag to appear and testify during the impeachment trial.
The panel specified that the two officials are expected to take the witness stand on July 13 to 15, as part of its effort to present key evidence and clarify matters relevant to the charges filed against the vice president. This move marks a significant step forward in the proceedings as the prosecution begins to call individuals it believes hold critical information.
According to the prosecution, the testimony of Atty. Lopez is considered essential given her role as the highest administrative official in the Office of the Vice President. As Chief of Staff, she oversees internal operations, records, and transactions, making her a key source of details regarding official actions, documents, and decisions that are central to the allegations raised. The panel believes her account will help establish facts and provide clarity on issues that form part of the articles of impeachment.
Meanwhile, the inclusion of NBI Director Melvin Matibag in the subpoena request stems from the agency’s involvement in handling investigations, documents, and other matters related to the case. The prosecution intends to ask him about the status of relevant files, actions taken by the bureau, and any findings or records that may support or clarify the issues before the court. By scheduling their appearance in the middle of July, the panel aims to ensure a continuous flow of testimony and evidence as the trial moves through its presentation phase.
The request will now be reviewed by the Impeachment Court, which will decide whether to grant the subpoenas and enforce the appearance of the two officials. If approved, their testimony is expected to provide deeper insight into the issues at hand and will be closely watched by both the defense and the public as the trial progresses.
metrosundaily
