The National Bureau of Investigation chief testified Wednesday during the ninth day of the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte [1].

The proceedings represent a significant legal challenge to the second-highest official in the Philippines. The outcome could determine whether the Vice President remains in office or is removed due to allegations of corruption and misconduct.

The trial began July 6, 2026 [2] in the Philippine Senate chamber in Manila. The prosecution has focused on claims involving the misuse of public funds, unexplained wealth, and threats made against top government officials [3].

On July 22, 2026, the trial reached its ninth day [1]. The NBI chief provided testimony specifically addressing the allegations of misuse of public funds [4]. This witness testimony is part of a broader effort by the Senate to establish a factual record of the Vice President's financial dealings.

Presiding officer Francis "Chiz" Escudero addressed the communication needs of the parties involved in the trial. "We recommend nominating respective spokespersons who are not limited by the rules of the court," Escudero said [5].

The Senate is currently acting as an impeachment court to try the Vice President. An unnamed Senate spokesperson said that the trial is a historic moment for the nation's democracy [6].

The trial continues to examine the evidence presented by the prosecution as the Senate weighs the validity of the charges brought against Duterte.

“The NBI chief will testify today on the allegations of misuse of public funds.”

The impeachment of a sitting Vice President is a rare and destabilizing event in Philippine politics. By utilizing the NBI chief as a primary witness, the Senate is attempting to move the trial from political rhetoric to forensic financial evidence. If the court finds the evidence of fund misuse credible, it could trigger a constitutional crisis or a significant shift in the country's executive leadership.