The prosecution has decided not to call Zuleika Lopez, the chief of staff of Vice President Sara Duterte, as a witness in her impeachment trial.Private prosecutor Lorna Kapunan stated that the defense team had already confirmed Duterte's alleged threats against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.and his family, making Lopez's testimony redundant.Lopez was initially scheduled to testify but was removed from the witness list after the prosecution deemed her presence unnecessary.

The decision comes after Lopez's role in Duterte's controversial virtual media conference in November 2024, where she threatened Marcos and his family.Lopez was also detained in the House of Representatives for contempt during an inquiry into Duterte's alleged fund misuse.The prosecution's move highlights the shifting dynamics of the impeachment proceedings, as key witnesses are withdrawn.The case remains under scrutiny, with ongoing debates about the validity of the allegations and the legal implications for Duterte.

The withdrawal of Lopez as a witness may impact the prosecution's ability to build a case, as her testimony could have provided critical evidence.However, the defense's admission of the threats may suffice to establish the allegations without her presence.This development underscores the complexities of the impeachment trial and the strategic considerations involved in selecting witnesses.