HOUSE Committee on Human Rights Chair Bienvenido “Benny” Abante Jr. of Manila on Thursday pointed to the affidavit of Ramil Madriaga as a potentially decisive piece of evidence behind the fourth impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte, saying it “might be the smoking gun.”
Answering questions on how strong the evidence is that Madriaga’s sworn statement could add to the case, Abante said: “Quite strong. In fact, sinabi ko nga sa aking interview that this might be the smoking gun.”
He said Madriaga’s proximity to key figures gives the affidavit weight.
“Because Ramil Madriaga is quite close to the former president and the vice president,” Abante said.
Abante, however, underscored that the affidavit must hold up as the process moves forward.
“Well, hopefully, hindi magbabago si Ramil sa kanyang mga ikinuwento sa kanyang affidavit,” he said. “Hopefully that he will be true and honest if ever he would face the impeachment court.”
Abante noted he has read Madriaga’s affidavit and is banking on its consistency if the case reaches trial.
“At pangalawa, nabasa ko rin ‘yung affidavit ni Ramil Madriaga, hopefully that he will not change tune on his affidavit,” Abante said.
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