By Merlina Hernando-Malipot
Vice President Sara Duterte on Thursday, Aug. 6, dismissed speculation that Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa’s reported arrest was meant to disrupt her impeachment trial, insisting the proceedings were already contentious due to alleged irregularities.
Speaking after attending the Kadayawan Festival Thanksgiving Mass in Davao City, Duterte said the impeachment process had been “bending the law” from the House of Representatives all the way to the Senate.
“Napaka‑klaro naman yung bending the law diyan sa impeachment na ’yan,” she said, adding that the trial was already muddled without the need for outside interference.
Duterte stressed there was no need to deliberately create confusion because the proceedings were “marred by bending the law.”
Despite her criticism of the process, Duterte expressed confidence in her defense team, thanking her lawyers for their diligence and passion in handling her case.
She also alleged a broader pattern of political persecution against those who oppose President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., claiming more cases were being prepared against her and her allies.
Amid the challenges, Duterte expressed gratitude to her supporters, acknowledging the difficulties faced by the Office of the Vice President due to politics and attacks but vowing to continue its work.
