The Senate impeachment court in Manila has approved the transfer of exhibit markings for portions of the affidavit provided by Arturo Lascañas, a self-confessed member of the Davao Death Squad (DDS), according to newsinfo.inquirer.net. The court maintained that the contents of the affidavit remain classified as “hearsay.” The decision comes as part of ongoing proceedings against former Davao City mayor Duterte, who faces impeachment charges.
Presiding officer Senator-judge Francis Escudero made the ruling during a session on Wednesday. The move allows for the formal handling of the affidavit in legal proceedings, though its evidentiary weight remains limited. The affidavit, which includes claims of human rights violations, has been a key element in the impeachment case against Duterte.
Meanwhile, Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida addressed rumors about the arrest of Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa on charges of crimes against humanity before the International Criminal Court (ICC). Vida stated that he could not confirm the rumors and emphasized that such matters are under the jurisdiction of law enforcement.
The developments highlight the ongoing legal battles involving high-profile figures in Philippine politics.
