Manila: The Senate impeachment court on Tuesday provided Vice President Sara Duterte's defense team with a 15-day period to address 104 requests for admission, as presented by House prosecutors, in preparation for the unexplained wealth allegations case.

According to Philippines News Agency, the decision was made by Presiding Officer Francis 'Chiz' Escudero, who granted the full 15-day period under Rule 26 of the Rules of Court, following a request by defense counsel Michael Poa. Poa advocated for the complete duration rather than the shorter timeline proposed by the prosecution.

"The Chair gives the respondent 15 days from today to file their comment on the 104 requests for admission under Rule 26," Escudero stated. He emphasized that a broad denial or unreasonable refusal to admit matters raised in these requests could be factored into the court's considerations.

Defense counsel Michael Poa did not dispute the 15-day timeframe but requested the court to evaluate the relevance of the requests to the impeachment proceedings. In response, Escudero assured the court would scrutinize the defense's feedback and safeguard Duterte's constitutional rights.

"We will be looking at the comments you will be filing, and we will make sure that it will not violate the respondent's right against self-incrimination," Escudero assured.

Senator-judge Vicente Sotto III inquired if the 15-day period might pause the impeachment trial. Escudero confirmed it would not, stating, "We will proceed with the presentation of the witness of the prosecutors," and clarified that the prosecution could continue with direct examination even as the defense reviews the admission requests and the extensive financial records from banks and other institutions.

"The trial will proceed. It will not be delayed," Escudero reiterated. Additionally, Senator-judge Panfilo Lacson asked about the possibility of extending the 15-day period. Escudero confirmed the period was fixed, stressing strict adherence to the rule.

The 104 requests for admission are integral to the prosecution's strategy concerning Article II of the impeachment case, which centers on accusations of unexplained wealth. These requests aim to prompt the opposing party to formally acknowledge certain facts or the authenticity of documents, which could streamline the issues that need proof during the trial.