VP’s spouse files P7.3-M lawsuit vs impeachment complainant, witness

THE HUSBAND of Vice-President (VP) Sara Duterte-Carpio has filed a P7.3-million civil suit for damages before a Davao court against impeachment complainant Joel T. Saballa and detained witness Ramil L. Madriaga, claiming they conspired to spread “perjurious lies” that allegedly damaged his law practice and reputation.

- By Erika Mae P. Sinaking and Chloe Mari A. Hufana Reporters

In a complaint filed on April 29 before the Davao City Regional Trial Court, lawyer Manases R. Carpio sued 14 respondents, including Mr. Saballa and Mr. Madriaga, a self-confessed bagman for confidential fund deliveries who previously testified before the House Committee on Justice.

“The defendants conspired, confederated, cooperated, and contributed... toward their sought political impeachment of VP Sara Z. Duterte founded on perjurious lies, falsities, concoctions, wild imaginations and black propaganda,” Mr. Carpio said in the complaint.

“Plaintiff’s law practice via his Carpio Law Office has been irreparably damaged, adversely impacted his good reputation in the legal community resulting in severe loss of income and legal opportunities,” he added.

The suit seeks P1 million in actual damages, P3 million in moral damages, and P3 million in exemplary damages.

Amando Virgil D. Ligutan, counsel for Mr. Saballa, argued the impeachment complaint was filed in exercise of constitutional rights, calling Mr. Carpio’s camp “desperate.”