The House prosecution team seeking to convict Vice President Sara Duterte has beefed up its ranks ahead of the controversial official’s Senate impeachment trial.

From 11, there are now 15 private prosecutors for the task, following the introduction of experienced litigators Theordore Te, Reynaldo Robles, Arnold Labay, and Mae Divinagracia to the panel.

Doing the honors during a press conference Monday, June 29 was one of the 11 solon-prosecutors in Mamamayang Liberal (ML) Party-list Rep. Leila de Lima.

This means that the prosecution panel in the upcoming impeachment trial is now 26 strong.

Meanwhile, former House quad-committee (quad-comm) overall chairman Robert Ace Barbers was also named the fourth spokesperson of the panel.

“We welcome these seasoned lawyers because their experience will help the prosecution present its case clearly, responsibly and with the seriousness that the Filipino people deserve,” De Lima, a former Department of Justice (DOJ) secretary, said.

Barbers, who also took on the role of impeachment adviser, formerly served as governor of Surigao del Norte, as a six-term member of the House of Representatives, and as chairman of several key congressional committees, including the famed quad-comm during the previous 19th Congress.

Known for his straightforward approach and deep understanding of public policy, Barbers has earned the respect of colleagues, government institutions and the media for explaining complex national issues in clear and practical terms.

Throughout his years in public office, Barbers helped shape legislation on taxation, education, national security, public safety and government reform.

He has also consistently advocated transparency, accountability and responsible governance, particularly in congressional inquiries involving public funds, law enforcement and national interest issues.