Ombudsman seen next step

The House Prosecution Panel is open to endorsing its withdrawn Articles of Impeachment against Vice President Sara Duterte to the Office of the Ombudsman for further investigation, particularly when it comes to allegations of misuse of public funds.

Public prosecutor Rep. Gerville Luistro affirmed the panel’s position on the matter in a press conference with reporters on Friday, noting that it would consult with other members of the prosecution.

“I think in one of my interviews I was able to articulate that even before that interview of Ombudsman Boying Remulla that if a formal endorsement of all the record (is made), we will be willing to endorse,” Luistro said.

“We will be seeking the position of course of the members of the panel also,” he added.

The lawmaker further stated that they would give the Ombudsman a “free hand” in how they would assess the evidence presented during the impeachment trial.