Prosecutors May Drop Bribery Charge in Duterte Impeachment as Budget Talks Loom
Prosecutors said they could abandon the bribery accusation against Vice President Sara Duterte if they cannot present evidence before the Senate begins debating the 2027 budget.
In the impeachment proceeding, prosecutors indicated they aim to finish presenting evidence by mid-October, when the Senate is expected to shift focus to the P7.2-trillion 2027 national budget. Benjamin Tolosa Jr., the prosecution’s spokesperson, warned that insufficient time could lead them to withdraw the bribery charge against Vice President Sara Duterte. The decision hinges on whether evidence can be submitted before the legislative break.
Why it matters
The possible dismissal of the charge could affect the outcome of a high-profile impeachment and influence budget deliberations.
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