Antonio Bucoy

Antonio "Audie" Z. Bucoy is a Filipino lawyer, human rights advocate, and served as spokesperson for the House Prosecution Panel in the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte. With over 41 years of legal experience, Bucoy specializes in corporate law, intellectual property, and trial litigation while maintaining a strong background in human rights advocacy.

Early life and education

Bucoy earned his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of the Philippines Diliman in 1980 and his Bachelor of Laws from the same institution in 1984. He was admitted to the Bar Exam in 1985.

Even before becoming a lawyer, Bucoy was active in human rights work, joining the Free Legal Assistance Group (FLAG) in 1980 during the Marcos dictatorship. He served as a field investigator under prominent human rights lawyers Jose Diokno, Joker Arroyo, and Lorenzo Tañada, documenting cases of human rights abuses.

Career

Bucoy serves as Managing Partner of Bucoy Poblador and Associates, a law firm specializing in corporate/tax law and intellectual property that has been recognized by the World Trademark Review for its exceptional IP litigation practice. He has taught as Professor of Corporate and Remedial Law at Jose Rizal University College of Law while also holding leadership positions including General Counsel and Trustee of the Boy Scouts of the Philippines National Executive Board. His extensive experience includes serving as legal advisor to Philippine presidents and industry leaders, as well as participating in the fact-finding commission that investigated the 2003 Oakwood mutiny.

The World Trademark Review has recognized Bucoy as "the name to call for IP disputes," describing his firm as "home to a deep bench of diversely qualified IP talent."

Human rights advocacy

Throughout his career, Bucoy has maintained active involvement with human rights organizations including the Free Legal Assistance Group (FLAG) and the Movement of Attorneys for Brotherhood, Integrity, and Nationalism (MABINI). His international legal affiliations span prestigious organizations such as the American Society of International Law and International Trademark Association, reflecting his expertise in both human rights and intellectual property law.

Impeachment trial spokesperson

In June 2025, the House of Representatives appointed Bucoy as spokesperson for the prosecution panel in the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte. Accepting the position pro bono, Bucoy stated:

He framed the proceedings as a "moral question of accountability" rather than just legal liability.

Personal life

Bucoy is fluent in English, Filipino, and Spanish. In 2013, he donated ₱1million to the senatorial campaign of Alan Peter Cayetano.