House panel opposes Tolentino's proposal to narrow impeachment articles

Members of the House prosecution panel are opposing Senator Francis Tolentino's proposal to narrow down the seven Articles of Impeachment against Vice President Sara Duterte.

Representative Rodge Gutierrez stated that it would be a betrayal of the full articles they have filed if the number of articles were consolidated into two, as proposed by Tolentino.

Gutierrez expressed concern about the limited time for evidence presentation under Tolentino's proposed timeline and emphasized that only two days have been allotted to present all seven articles, which he says is insufficient.

Akbayan Representative Perci Cendaña argued that rushing the trial would deny Vice President Duterte a fair day in court, emphasizing the Senate's mandate to conduct a thorough trial rather than dismissing it.

Gabriela Representative Arlene Brosas echoed concerns about Tolentino's motives and called for substantial discussions during the impeachment trial, asserting that the trial should not be bound by legislative calendars.

House Assistant Majority Leader Zia Alonto Adiong is ready to accept the Senate's decision on the timeline but hopes it will be sufficient for people to understand the issues raised in the complaint.