Ridon, Tolosa receive show cause order over alleged sub judice rule violation

September 17, 2026

By ABOGADO.COM.PH Staff

House prosecutor and Bicol Saro Rep. Terry Ridon said he and private prosecutor Benjamin Tolosa Jr. received show cause orders from the Impeachment Court over their alleged violation of the sub judice rule in Vice President Sara Duterte’s trial.

Ridon said they respect the court’s power and would respond accordingly to the order to explain why they should not be penalized over their remarks.

“Tingin ho namin yung gampanin namin should be seen in the entirety of the context of explaining to the public the goings on of the trial. Kahit kailan hindi po namin hinihikayat na ma-prejudge ito pong proseso na ito, hindi po namin hinihikayat na ma-impluwensiyahan ang atin pong mga senator-judges,” Ridon told reporters.

Amid this development, he said they would continue with their duties to present evidence to support allegations of unexplained wealth against Duterte.

They would also continue to explain the trial to the public, while still abiding by the regulations of the Impeachment Court, so that the people would be able to understand the proceedings.

Ridon underscored the importance of ensuring that the public understands why there is a trial and why it is important to know the truth and have accountability.

Presiding Officer Sen. Francis Escudero earlier reminded the parties to abide by the sub judice rule, which prohibits comments on the merits of the ongoing case.

Escudero said there would be a two-strike rule for violators of the rule.

The first offense will be penalized with a severe reprimand and stern admonition in open court, and the second offense will be penalized with a P30,000 fine per violation.