Chiz clears VP’s AMLC records for impeachment use

MANILA, Philippines — Financial documents from the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) can now be used as evidence in the ongoing impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, following clearance from presiding officer Francis Escudero.

Senate impeachment court spokesman Reginald Tongol made the confirmation yesterday, noting that impeachment proceedings are a legal exception to the country’s strict anti-money laundering laws.

“Our presiding officer has already decided to allow those records to be used (as evidence),” Tongol told radio dzBB.

Tongol added that Escudero reviewed the documents and found that their release would not compromise or disclose the AMLC’s confidential investigative methods.

To formally enter the records into the trial, the tribunal would subpoena AMLC executive director Ronald Buenaventura.

He is expected to authenticate the documents and explain the council’s findings to the senator-judges.

The Senate impeachment court is currently on Article II (unexplained wealth). Last week, prosecutors scrutinized Duterte’s alleged business interests, particularly in her hometown in Davao City.