FACT: There is no need for Col. Raymund Dante Lachica to present as a witness

A post on social media asserts that Lachica does not have to receive a subpoena and serve as a witness in the impeachment trial of VP Sara Duterte, as per the House of Prosecution Panel.

CLAIM:

Lachica is ready to be presented in the trial to give his testimony on VP Sara Duterte’s misuse of funds if the court orders him to do so. Yet, the prosecution views no need to present him as a witness, saying that the initial testimonies and evidence are enough to support their allegations.

RATING: FACT

CONCLUSION:

At this point, the cross-examinations for witnesses on VP Duterte’s misuse of confidential funds have established supporting evidence for the House prosecution panel, prompting them to cross-examine Lachica only if the defense presents him. , 

THE FACTS:

• The House of Prosecution Panel Adviser and Spokesman Ace Barbers explains that they are prepared to cross-examine Lachica in case the defense panel presents him as a witness beforehand.
• The House Prosecution Spokespersons, Rep. Renee Co and Rep. Zia Alonto Adion, meanwhile, emphasized the evidence on record obtained from the previous witness, SDO Gina Acosta, who stated that Duterte is the one who ordered all the transactions and processes, and the overall chain of confidential funds, which leads to the misuse of it, is very important to hold on to now. These have already been established, with or without the presence of Lachica.

THE BOTTOMLINE:

The prosecution is focused on the recorded testimonies and documents; they do not need to request Lachica to be a witness.