The prosecution in Sara Duterte's impeachment trial has requested her appearance as a witness to address allegations of grave threats and incitement against the president.Private prosecutor Lorna Kapunan argued that Duterte's testimony would be crucial, citing media reports of her presence in the Senate premises.

However, presiding officer Senator Francis Escudero clarified that Duterte is not obligated to attend the trial and that a formal request must be made for her participation.

The impeachment court is set to discuss Article 4, which centers on Duterte's controversial online remarks in 2024 where she allegedly threatened the lives of political figures.National Bureau of Investigation agents and legislative security officials are expected to testify, with Calilung already appearing.Duterte's impeachment case, filed in May, alleges constitutional violations, graft, and betrayal of public trust.The Senate convened as an impeachment court on May 18, and Duterte's legal team has already filed a response to dismiss the case.

The trial highlights the political tensions surrounding Duterte's role in the administration and the legal mechanisms for holding public officials accountable.