Former Bayan Muna Partylist Representative Atty. Kaloi Zarate described Colonel Lachica’s potential testimony in the Impeachment Court as a double-edged sword that could harm whichever side presents him.
In an interview with Bombo Radyo, he clarified that calling the witness poses a major risk for the prosecution, akin to searching for evidence in a dark room due to the absence of formal testimony from the House Justice Committee.
Conversely, if the defense calls the official to clarify points unaddressed by the previous two witnesses, Acosta and Ortoño, questioning will remain limited because leading questions are prohibited for one’s own witness—as he cannot be declared a hostile witness.
Due to these legal constraints and risks on both sides, Zarate stated it remains uncertain which camp will benefit or be disadvantaged until the actual courtroom testimony is heard.
