Philippine Supreme Court Case Resumes as OSG Returns for Duterte’s Defense
The Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) has returned to represent respondents in a Supreme Court case against former President Rodrigo Duterte and Senator Ronald 'Bato' Dela Rosa. The move follows months of legal uncertainty after the OSG withdrew from the proceedings earlier in 2025. Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla confirmed the reentry in December 2025, ending a temporary gap in representation.
The OSG first sought permission to withdraw from the case in March 2025. The Supreme Court approved this request in April 2025, leaving the respondents without official representation. In response, the Department of Justice (DOJ) temporarily stepped in to cover the legal proceedings.
In November 2025, the Supreme Court ordered the respondents to address the petitioners’ Very Urgent Manifestation. Shortly after, on November 25, 2025, the DOJ referred the matter back to the OSG. The OSG then formally notified the Supreme Court of its return on December 1, 2025.
Justice Secretary Remulla publicly confirmed the OSG’s reentry later that month. The office also requested copies of all related court documents and submissions to resume its role effectively.
The OSG’s return ensures continuous legal representation for Duterte and Dela Rosa in the ongoing Supreme Court case. The respondents must now comply with the court’s November order to respond to the petitioners’ filing. The case will proceed with the OSG resuming its original duties.
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