The House prosecution panel stated that it is the right of VP Sara to have her lawyers represent her instead of physically attending the Senate impeachment court. They also believed that this was the legal strategy employed by her defense team. That was their response when questioned regarding the absence of VP Sara on the first day of trial.

“Diskarte nila ‘yan eh, so it’s up to them,” according to Rep. Joel Chua

“That's an application of accountability. It's not the house prosecution anymore that's asking her to attend. It's the impeachment court,” Rep. Terry Ridon said

“That is her prerogative. Kapag hindi siya umattend, kapag walang counsel, kapag walang answer, the trial will simply proceed,” said Rep. Jinky Luistro

“Well, hse actually has the discretion not to bear pero it doesn't sit well. It doesn't look well. Right?” according to Rep. Leila De Lima

According to Bicol Saro Party-list Representative Terry Ridon, her absence reflects the level of her respect for the court. 

“Iba na ho iyon. So, if she doesn't appear then, it speaks of the level of respect that she would want to convey to the Senate impeachment court,” he said

Nevertheless, the prosecution remains prepared to present its witnesses and evidence, whether VP Sara will attend the trial or not, says Atty. Benjamin Tolosa Jr., a legal spokesperson for House prosecutors.

“So far as we are concerned? Our singular focus here will not change regardless of her appearance. We will make sure that we will be able to establish solid evidence to back serious allegations against her regardless of she will be there or not,” he said

The prosecution panel also responded to Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian’s call to reduce the number of trial dates and witnesses to shorten the proceedings.

“We heard the statement of the Senate President about this yesterday. And of course, we will try to conclude the presentation of evidence in an expeditious manner without, of course sacrificing our ability to do it in a proper and effective way as well. Pag papayagan tayo magpresenta ng mahigit sa isang testigo kada araw susubukan nating gawin yan if the time permits,”

The House prosecution panel is set to present its witnesses and evidence regarding the articles of impeachment on grave threats and inciting to sedition. However, this is expected to take place on the second and third days of the trial.

With reports from Rosalie Coz

Watch the livestream of the impaechment trial (Day 2):