NBI witness hailed after grilling

House prosecution adviser and spokesperson Robert Ace Barbers commended National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Senior Agent John Mark Calilung last week for standing firm during what he described as an exhaustive cross-examination by the defense panel in the Senate impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte.

Barbers said the defense’s lengthy questioning failed to weaken either the credibility of the NBI agent or the substance of his testimony on the grave threats charges, adding that Calilung consistently provided clear and evidence-based answers throughout the proceedings.

Speaking at a press briefing, Barbers praised the witness for maintaining his composure despite repeated attempts to challenge his statements.

He said Calilung demonstrated professionalism and competence by responding to every question based on facts and evidence gathered during the bureau’s investigation.

According to Barbers, the prosecution had anticipated a rigorous cross-examination from the defense, but maintained that the proceedings instead reinforced the strength of its case.

He added that the witness’ performance before the Senate, sitting as an impeachment court, bolstered the credibility of the evidence supporting the Articles of Impeachment.

Barbers stressed that the prosecution welcomes thorough questioning of its witnesses, saying it allows the facts to be fully examined and gives the impeachment court a clearer basis for evaluating the evidence.

He also reiterated that the House prosecution panel remains committed to presenting its case fairly, objectively, and with full respect for due process.

“The prosecution’s role is not simply to seek a favorable verdict but to help the impeachment court arrive at a decision based solely on the evidence presented,” Barbers said.

He likewise urged the public to closely follow the impeachment proceedings and allow the constitutional process to unfold without prejudice, describing the Senate trial as an important mechanism for ensuring accountability among public officials.

Meanwhile, House trial spokesperson Zia Alonto-Adiong said the prosecution’s decision to waive a re-direct examination of its first witness reflected its confidence in the testimony already presented.

Alonto-Adiong explained that prosecutors saw no need to ask additional questions because the defense’s cross-examination did not raise any significant issue requiring clarification.

He added that Calilung remained consistent on the key points of his testimony, leaving the prosecution with nothing further to explain or rehabilitate before the impeachment court.