Defense: ‘We’ve never discussed’ Sara Duterte resignation

MANILA, Philippines — Vice President Sara Duterte’s defense team said Wednesday that they have never discussed the possibility of their client resigning amid her ongoing impeachment trial.

Defense spokesperson Michael Poa made the pronouncement in response to Bicol Saro Partylist Rep. Terry Ridon’s recent remarks saying the vice president shouldn’t resign as “they have yet to arrive at the most exciting part.”

READ: Impeachment trial to continue even if Sara Duterte resigns – prosecution

“I will not respond to Rep. Ridon’s comment because again, he’s entitled to his own opinion and I respect his opinion whether it be for us or against us,” Poa, speaking in a mix of Filipino and English, said in a press conference.

“But … we have never discussed the resignation of our vice president. So, I don’t think we even have to discuss that issue,” he added.

It should be noted, however, that Ridon’s remark was made after he was asked in a separate press conference about the matter.

While it is unclear where these rumors came from, Ridon said the House prosecution will continue to pursue the trial even if Duterte resigns.

The Senate impeachment court recently concluded tackling the House prosecution’s presentation of evidence for Article IV of the articles of impeachment against Duterte. /jpv