Palace Press Officer Claire Castro came to Vice President Sara Duterte’s defense in a rare instance, saying that discussions about replacing her are disrespectful because she has not been convicted in her impeachment trial. On Oct. 27, Castro described the discussions as premature and called for respect for the Office of the Vice President while the Senate impeachment trial remains unresolved. Amid her impeachment trial, Duterte has denied wrongdoing, ruled out resigning and accused the prosecution of fabricating evidence. “Bumabagsak na yung kaso nila kaya binibilisan, kasi wala na silang masabi. Nag-iimbento ka ng ebidensya eh,” she said. The defense is set to present evidence on the remaining unexplained wealth charge over eight hearing dates from Nov. 9 to 23. Some officials have said the trial could end before the Christmas break, although no date has been set for a verdict. An OCTA Research survey conducted Sept. 28 to Oct. 4 found that 47% of Filipinos wanted more evidence before taking a position, while 25% favored acquittal and 21% supported conviction. Impeachment court presiding officer Francis “Chiz” Escudero said he would reject a vice presidential nomination to avoid a conflict of interest. Senate Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano called on fellow senator-judges to make the same commitment, while Sen. Panfilo Lacson opposed restricting President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s options. For a replacement to become necessary following impeachment, Duterte must first be convicted by the required two-thirds vote of the Senate and removed from office. Marcos would then nominate a successor from either the Senate or House of Representatives, subject to confirmation by a majority of all members of each chamber voting separately. Written by J E Socorro Designed by James Rivera - @pgmn_official