The defense team has declined to confirm whether Ramil Madriaga could become a star witness in the impeachment trial.
Defense spokesperson Michael Poa said the possibility would depend on the team’s strategy. He declined to say whether Madriaga would be presented on the witness stand.
Madriaga is included in the list of witnesses submitted by both the prosecution and the defense, according to Poa.
Poa said the defense team does not intend to disclose its upcoming moves or identify in advance which witnesses it plans to present.
The defense spokesperson also addressed statements by Atty. Paolo Panelo regarding the possibility of Madriaga becoming an important witness for the defense. Poa noted that Panelo is not part of the defense team.
Poa said he understood the basis for Panelo’s statements, particularly because Panelo is handling the perjury cases involving Madriaga.
For the defense team, however, Poa said the focus remains on its strategy and avoiding the disclosure of details about its planned actions.
Panelo previously said during an online press conference Aug. 19 that Madriaga could become a star witness for the defense. Panelo said he believed the alleged lies by Madriaga could emerge during cross-examination.
Poa did not confirm whether the defense team would ultimately call Madriaga to testify.
The defense team’s position leaves open whether Madriaga will appear as a witness for the defense during the impeachment trial.
