Pemberton’s lawyers told journalists Laude was still alive when the marine left the hotel.
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Government prosecutors charged Pemberton with murder, saying there was probable cause that he killed Laude, who had apparently been strangled to death.
According to the reports, the American serviceman confessed to choking and dragging the victim after discovering that Laude was not biologically female.
Roque said that Pemberton invoked self-defence and told the court he feared that he would be raped.
The lawyer for the victim’s family, Harry Roque, recounted Pemberton’s testimony to the media, who were not allowed in the courtroom.
He said he found no water in the bathroom so he chose to just leave Laude there.
Last May, Philippine National Police medico-legal officer and pathologist Dr. Maritess Ombao testified that Laude died due to strangulation and asphyxia by drowning.
The case has gained global attention as the Philippines and the US seek closer military ties to counter China’s territorial claims and expansion in the South China Sea.
Pemberton had been participating in joint US-Philippine army workouts in October 2014 when the incident befell.
Pemberton is now detained at the JUSMAG facility inside the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ headquarters at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City.
He met Laude at the Ambyanz Nightlife Bar along Magsaysay Avenue and were later seen checking in together at the nearby Celzone Lodge.
The defense is now presenting its evidence after the prosecution rested its case. Pemberton said he then choked.
Dorrien said the lubricant matched the same substance found on Pemberton’s penile shaft as well as on Laude’s anal area.
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A 3rd expert witness, forensic toxicologist George Jackson, said he took blood samples from Laude.
