MANILA, Philippines — The Senate impeachment court on Monday said it has granted one of the prosecution’s witnesses’ request not to attend the proceedings this week. Presiding officer and Senator-judge Francis “Chiz” Escudero made the announcement during the 16th day Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment trial. READ: Duterte trial: Escudero to rule on counsels’ public statements on case According to Escudero, it was Office of the Vice President (OVP) assistant chief-of-staff Lemuel Ortonio who asked for a leave or to be excused from attending the hearing from Aug. 17 to 19 due to his scheduled psychologist licensure exam. “Given that we […]...Keep on reading: Senate impeachment court grants witness' request for leave