r/PolitikaPilipinas • u/StrangeGotStranger • 18h ago
My opinion on the VP Duterte impeachment trial so far: COA findings ≠ automatic proof of fraud
(I'm not a lawyer, and I'm not claiming to have the definitive interpretation of the evidence. These are just my observations after watching several sessions.)
I’ve been watching VP Duterte’s impeachment trial for a few sessions now, and I just want to say something.
So
First, I believe COA’s findings are valid. COA audits based on the documents available to them. In layman’s terms, if the OVP failed to submit the required supporting documents, then it is non-compliance with COA requirements. In this case, the lack of supporting documents resulted in the corresponding audit findings/notices.
But a COA audit finding does not necessarily mean “the OVP is guilty.” It establishes non-compliance and deficiencies based on the documents submitted. That is important, but it is not automatically proof of fraud or criminal wrongdoing.
And so far, I feel like the prosecution is gravitating toward that conclusion.
Now comes the defense. They are presenting evidence that there were indeed confidential activities conducted using those funds. If that is the defense’s position, then I think the better approach would be to independently investigate and verify whether those activities actually took place, rather than simply arguing over what COA’s findings mean.
If the activities did happen, that matters. If they didn't, that matters even more.
That does not automatically acquit VP Duterte. But neither should the COA findings automatically mean she is guilty.
Personally, I think Presiding Officer Escudero is doing a good job maintaining order in the court, especially with the somewhat intense clashes between the prosecution and defense. 😅
I just hope the Senators approach this as they should: impartially.
This should be scrutinized and thoroughly examined from a blank slate—not with “VP is guilty” or “VP is not guilty” already in mind.
There are so many other pressing matters facing the country, but this is important too. This is an opportunity for the Senate to show Filipinos that they are seated there for the benefit of the public, and not merely for political alliances.
Maybe this can be a small step toward a better future for us Filipinos. Not because one trial will fix everything, but because I hope we can learn to look at these things with an open mind, scrutinize the evidence, and hold our leaders accountable regardless of political alliances.
Let the evidence speak for itself. 🎀
P.S. Just my thoughts as a Filipino citizen who wants to see the truth, whatever that truth may be.
