The defense team of Vice President Sara Duterte expects the impeachment trial to move to Article I, concerning the alleged anomalous use of confidential funds.

This comes after the prosecution reduced the number of witnesses it will present, with NBI Director Melvin Matibag expected to be the last witness for Article IV.

The defense also maintained that it would be better to explain the withdrawal of witnesses through a press conference, so as not to influence the public and the senator-judges.

The camp of VP Duterte also said it respects the move made by the prosecution and stated that they may likewise reduce their own witnesses depending on how the trial proceeds.

"We're just shifting gears because I think after Director Matibag we will proceed with Article 1. So now, of course, we're focusing on Article 1. Although we're prepared for it, as the trial goes, parating may fine-tuning here and there."  Defense Team Spokesperson Atty. Michael Poa said.

(We're just shifting gears because I think after Director Matibag we will proceed with Article 1. So now, of course, we're focusing on Article 1. Although we're prepared for it, as the trial goes, there's always fine-tuning here and there.)

"Gusto lang natin maging patas. Magwiwithdraw ng witness, simply have to say na magwi-withdraw ng witness." Atty. Poa added. 

(We just want to be fair. If a witness is to be withdrawn, we simply have to say that a witness will be withdrawn.)

‍