Escudero hits prosecutors for violating sub judice rule

Presiding officer Chiz Escudero made a lighthearted comment about private prosecutor Atty. Mae Divinagracia’s hoarse voice during the 18th day of the impeachment trial on August 25, 2026.

STAR / File

MANILA, Philippines — Presiding officer Sen. Francis Escudero yesterday issued show-cause orders against members of the House prosecution panel amid alleged violation of the sub judice ruling in the ongoing impeachment trial against Vice President Sara Duterte.

Escudero did not disclose the names of the members of the prosecution team who were included in the show cause orders.

Escudero has vowed the sub judice rule will be strictly enforced in Duterte’s impeachment trial as he has warned of public reprimand and admonition on the first offense and a P30,000 fine on the second.

He warned the prosecution – both the public and private panels – and the defense team that they could face contempt of court if they violated the sub judice rule.

Baste subpoenaed

Meanwhile, Escudero approved the issuance of a subpoena for Duterte’s brother, Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte.

“In regard to Mayor Sebastian Duterte… let the subpoena be issued only for Sept. 23. However, on Sept. 22, depending on where we are with respect to the three witnesses, we shall announce if we will be withdrawing that subpoena and simply issue a new one for the following week or the week thereafter. So as not to waste their time, given that they are all officials performing duties in connection with their functions,” Escudero said.

Defense spokesman Michael Poa said that it is the prerogative of the prosecution to request a subpoena for the mayor.