Manila: The House prosecution team is prepared to call Col. Raymund Dante Lachica to the stand during the ongoing impeachment proceedings, but only if his testimony offers additional probative value, according to Robert Ace Barbers, the impeachment team adviser and spokesperson. Barbers emphasized that their decision is based on the potential "trial value" of Lachica's testimony, rather than any fear of its impact.

According to Philippines News Agency, Barbers clarified that the panel is confident in the evidence already presented by its current witnesses. The impeachment team has relied on testimonies from former Office of the Vice President (OVP) special disbursing officer Gina Acosta and OVP Assistant Secretary Lemuel Ortonio. Their statements have outlined Lachica's involvement in receiving funds and providing information that was later used in responses to audit findings. The prosecution's stance is that these testimonies sufficiently demonstrate misuse and irregular liquidation of funds, connecting the actions to Vice President Duterte's authority.

Barbers explained that Lachica's absence from the 2024 House Committee inquiry differed from other key witnesses like Acosta and Ortonio, making it uncertain what he might contribute if called. However, he acknowledged that the defense might still choose to present Lachica. The Senate impeachment court retains the option to subpoena Lachica, in which case the prosecution is prepared to cross-examine him.

Barbers further noted that even if Lachica assumes responsibility for his involvement in the handling of OVP confidential funds, it would not absolve Vice President Duterte from accountability. He addressed concerns raised by House prosecutor Manila Rep. Joel Chua, who speculated on Lachica's willingness to testify as potentially being a strategic maneuver to mislead the prosecution.

Testimonies from Acosta and Ortonio have placed Lachica in the critical position of handling funds after their withdrawal and before their reported use. Acosta claimed to have handed over substantial sums to Lachica following direct orders from Duterte, while Ortonio admitted to lacking direct knowledge of the fund's application, instead relying on Lachica's reports.

Lachica has expressed a willingness to testify if he is lawfully summoned, leaving open the possibility of his future involvement in the proceedings.