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Key Witness Madriaga Testifies in Duterte Impeachment Hearing, Handcuff Controversy Ensues
Key Witness Attends Duterte Impeachment Hearing in Handcuffs
The Philippine House Justice Committee convened a hearing for the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte. The proceedings garnered significant attention as Ramil Madriaga, identified as a key witness, arrived in handcuffs, escorted by military personnel. This immediately sparked a discussion prior to the official start of the hearing regarding the appropriateness of his restraint during the session. Questions were raised about whether his handcuffs should be removed, leading to a deliberation on the relevant protocols and procedures.
Madriaga's Testimony and De Lima's Disclosure
Following the removal of his handcuffs, Madriaga testified about a handwritten letter he sent to Senator Leila de Lima on November 17, 2025. In this letter, Madriaga claimed he was unjustly accused and detained for assisting farmers in Mariveles. He further implicated former spokesperson Harry Roque in the matter. Madriaga noted that while he was previously charged with kidnapping in 1997, he was acquitted by the Supreme Court on appeal. Senator De Lima revealed that she had also received a copy of an affidavit, executed by Madriaga on November 29, which contained information regarding Sara Duterte and the Duterte family. De Lima confirmed that she possessed both the original handwritten letter and a photocopy of the subsequent affidavit.
*Source: YouTube: ABS-CBN News (2026-04-14)*
