Former Department of Education Spokesperson Michael Poa. Screengrab from The Mangahas Interviews 

MANILA, Philippines – The Supreme Court (SC) has confirmed that a former Education spokesperson is part of the defense team of Vice President Sara Duterte in her impeachment case. 

Lawyer Michael Poa has entered his appearance as one of Duterte’s counsels during the filing of her petition for prohibition 

“We are confirming that Atty. Michael Poa filed his Entry of Appearance as co-counsel for Vice President Sara Duterte,” the Supreme Court said. 

In February, Duterte sought SC intervention by filing a petition for mandamus requesting for the issuance of a temporary restraining order to block the Senate from convening as an impeachment court. 

A group of Mindanao lawyers, including former President Rodrigo Duterte, also filed the same request arguing that the impeachment case is based on a “constitutionally deficient” and “jurisdictionally void” complaint.”

The former president is also officially part of his daughter’s legal team. He however will not take lead defense according to the Vice President because of his age and health.