Piercing, not earpiece: Chiz debunks image of Ortonio as AI-generated
MANILA, Philippines — A viral image supposedly showing Office of the Vice President official Lemuel Ortonio wearing an earpiece while testifying last week was AI-generated and false, impeachment court presiding officer Sen. Francis Escudero said Tuesday, September 1.
The image circulated on social media alongside claims that Ortonio was being coached during his testimony in Vice President Sara Duterte's impeachment trial.
"After Mr. Ortonio testified before this court, an image of him allegedly wearing an earpiece was widely circulated on the internet. We take this opportunity after verification that it was an AI-generated image and simply false," Escudero said.
Escudero said what could be seen on Ortonio's ear was a piercing on the front fold helix, not an earpiece.
He nevertheless reminded parties that witnesses must testify solely from their own knowledge and without coaching or influence from lawyers or other people.
"No witness, while testifying, shall possess, have access to or use any earpiece, headset, cellphone, smartwatch, smart glasses, or any other similar device capable of transmitting or receiving information or communication," Escudero said.
"Witnesses are also prohibited from receiving or attempting to receive any communication, suggestion, answer, signal, message or prompt for any person whether inside or outside of this court," he added.
Escudero also directed court personnel to secure prohibited communication devices from witnesses before they are sworn in and obtain their confirmation that they understand the rules.
Ortonio, an OVP assistant secretary and assistant chief of staff, was declared a hostile prosecution witness when he testified last week on allegations involving the office's confidential funds.
His testimony forms part of the proceedings on Article I of the impeachment case, which involves allegations over the use of confidential funds by the OVP and the Department of Education.
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