This report is part of Inquirer’s special coverage of Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment proceedings. For real-time updates, follow our live coverage of the impeachment.
MANILA, Philippines – After two days of proceedings disrupted by inclement weather during Week 7, former Office of the Vice President (OVP) special disbursing officer Gina Acosta is set to return to the witness stand on Monday, Aug. 24, as the impeachment court resumes the 17th day of Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment trial.
Acosta, who has been declared a hostile witness, is expected to continue direct examination from the House prosecution over the alleged handling and disbursement of the OVP’s confidential funds.
Her testimony is closely watched following her claims during Day 16 of the trial that Duterte instructed her to turn over P125 million in cash to Col. Raymund Lachica, a non-OVP employee.
Key developments:
Acosta said the cash, consisting of P1,000 bills, was packed into four oblong-shaped traveling bags and brought to the OVP.
Acosta said she followed Duterte’s instruction to turn over the P125 million to Lachica.
The prosecution was unable to finish its direct examination during the previous hearing because of inclement weather.
Once the prosecution concludes its questioning, Duterte’s defense team will cross-examine Acosta.
Former Department of Education special disbursing officer Edward Fajarda is expected to take the witness stand after Acosta.
The impeachment court is expected to rule on the proposed change in the trial schedule from morning to afternoon./dp
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