High-Powered Legal Team to Defend VP Sara in Impeachment Trial

Image courtesy of the official Facebook page of Vice President Sara Duterte.

High-Powered Legal Team to Defend VP Sara in Impeachment Trial

By Wilma N. Yamzon – TheNationWeek.com  
June 16, 2025

MANILA, Philippines – As a formidable legal battle brews over Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment proceedings, a renowned law firm has officially entered its appearance on her behalf.

Lawyer Reginald Tongol, spokesperson for the Senate impeachment court, released copies of the formal entry document, received by the Senate Secretary – who also serves as the court’s clerk – at 5:03 p.m. on Monday.

The filing confirmed that Fortun Narvasa & Salazar, a firm known for its high-profile clientele and aggressive litigation strategies, would spearhead Duterte’s defense.

The legal team boasts a roster of seasoned attorneys, including Philip Sigfrid Fortun, Gregorio Narvasa II, Sheila Sison, and a dozen other legal professionals.

Their collective expertise spans various areas of law, suggesting a comprehensive and multifaceted defense strategy.

“The Senate impeachment court has officially acknowledged the notice of representation,” Tongol said, referring to the law office.

The entry, dated June 16, 2025, was logged through the Office of the Senate Secretary.

A minor procedural hiccup, however, occurred when a copy of the notice intended for the House of Representatives, which is acting as the prosecution, was reportedly refused.

The document, submitted at 3:42 p.m., was marked “Tender copy refused to receive.”

The reason for the refusal has remained unclear.

Observers were speculating whether the prosecution, comprising members of the House, could overcome the legal prowess of Fortun Narvasa & Salazar.

Adding another layer of intrigue to the situation is the fact that the Vice President comes from a family steeped in legal tradition.

Her father, father-in-law, and husband are all lawyers, indicating a strong understanding of the legal landscape.

The impeachment trial promises to be a landmark event in Philippine politics, with the nation watching closely as House prosecutors and Duterte’s legal team clash in the Senate impeachment court.