Vice President Sara Duterte’s legal team has officially entered its appearance before the Senate, marking the first formal move from her camp in response to the ongoing impeachment proceedings.
According to Senate Impeachment Court spokesperson Atty. Reginald Tongol, the legal representative of Vice President Duterte, filed their Appearance – Ad Cautelam at exactly 5:03 p.m. on Monday. The document, received by the Secretary of the Senate acting as the Clerk of Court for impeachment matters, confirms that the Manila-based law firm Fortun Narvasa & Salazar will represent the Vice President.
The term Ad Cautelam, which translates to “as a precaution,” suggests that while Duterte’s lawyers have officially entered the case, they may later challenge the impeachment’s validity or jurisdiction. This procedural move is intended to protect her legal rights as developments unfold.
This is the first definitive legal action by Duterte’s camp following mounting discussions in the House of Representatives about her possible impeachment. While no formal charges have yet been disclosed, political observers believe the allegations may relate to the misuse of confidential and intelligence funds, along with issues concerning her conduct in office.
Fortun Narvasa & Salazar is recognized as one of the country’s most reputable law firms, having previously handled several high-profile political and criminal cases. Their appearance signals Vice President Duterte’s intent to mount a strong and strategic legal defense.
The legal team representing her includes:
- Atty. Philip Sigfrid Fortun
- Atty. Gregorio Narvasa II
- Atty. Sheila Sison
- Atty. Carlo Joaquin Narvasa
- Atty. Roberto Batungbacal
- Atty. Justin Nicol Gular
- Atty. Lindon Miguel Bacquel
- Atty. David Ronell Golla VII
- Atty. Maria Selena Golda Fortun
- Atty. Clarlaine Radoc
- Atty. Francesca Marie Flores
- Atty. Miguel Carlos Fernandez
- Atty. Michael Wesley Poa
- Atty. Reynold Munsayac
- Atty. Mark Vinluan
- Atty. Ralph Bodota
While the Senate has yet to release a formal schedule for the impeachment court’s preliminary hearings, public interest in the trial is expected to surge in the coming days. The Vice President’s office has not released an official statement as of writing, though sources suggest that key allies in Congress may hold a press conference soon.
This entry of appearance sets the stage for what could become one of the most significant political trials in recent Philippine history.
