VP Sara Duterte's Impeachment Trial Shifts to 'Fitness for Office'

The impeachment trial of Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte has taken a sharp turn, with House prosecutors now focusing on whether she is still fit to hold the nation's second-highest office. This comes after laying down initial evidence, including testimony from an NBI official who confirmed that Duterte's alleged threats against top government figures were 'serious' and not just free speech. The shift signals an intensified effort by the prosecution to remove her from power. This is Duterte's second impeachment trial, stemming from charges like betrayal of public trust, alleged misuse of confidential funds, and grave threats against President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr., his wife, and former House Speaker Martin Romualdez. Last week, an NBI agent testified about a video where Duterte allegedly spoke of hiring a 'hitman' if she were killed, though he admitted no direct knowledge of an actual assassin. The defense, however, is preparing its own case, hinting at an alleged plot called 'Operation Romanov' against the Vice President and her family. As the trial enters its second week, with Senator Francis Escudero presiding, more witnesses are expected, including Duterte's chief aide, Zuleika Lopez. The proceedings are anticipated to last for months, and the Senate has even launched an online portal for the public to follow the details closely. All eyes are on how these crucial testimonies will shape the political future of the Philippines.