VP Duterte’s defense drops Sarmiento as witness in impeachment trial

VICE President Sara Duterte’s legal team has formally withdrawn law professor Ralph Sarmiento as a witness in her ongoing impeachment proceedings, the defense confirmed in a filing submitted to the Senate Impeachment Court on Thursday, November 5.

The manifestation stated the decision was made “out of respect” for Sarmiento’s own choice not to testify, without providing further details on his reasons for declining to appear. The defense also requested that any subpoena already issued for Sarmiento be recalled, noting that the document is no longer necessary.

The move comes as the defense prepares to begin presenting its side of the case next week, having previously sought court permission to summon 24 other witnesses from November 9 through 13. Sarmiento had been listed among those expected to testify, making his withdrawal a notable last‑minute adjustment to the defense’s witness lineup. No replacement has been named in his place as of this announcement.

The development does not alter the scheduled resumption of proceedings on Monday, November 9, when the defense is set to begin rebutting the prosecution’s evidence centered on Article II — the sole remaining charge alleging unexplained wealth, failure to fully disclose assets, and prohibited business interests. The Senate Impeachment Court has yet to issue a formal response to the defense’s latest filing, and proceedings are expected to proceed as scheduled with the remaining witnesses.