Senate proposes July 30 start of VP Sara’s impeachment trial

By Wilnard Bacelonia, Philippine News Agency

Escudero confirmed that official preparations would start on June 2, when the Senate resumes session wherein prosecutors will present the Articles of Impeachment and senators will approve revised trial rules. (File Photo: Senate of the Philippines/Facebook)

MANILA – The Senate has proposed to begin the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte on July 30, following a structured pre-trial process to ensure a fair and orderly proceeding, Senate President Francis Escudero announced in a press briefing on Thursday.

Escudero confirmed that official preparations would start on June 2, when the Senate resumes session wherein prosecutors will present the Articles of Impeachment and senators will approve revised trial rules.

By June 3, the Impeachment Court will convene and senator judges will take their oaths of office. The following day, June 4, the Senate is expected to issue a summons to Duterte.

Between June 14 and 24, the prosecution and defense will exchange legal pleadings, leading to pre-trial proceedings from June 24 to July 25. This phase will set the framework for the trial, ensuring an efficient and organized presentation of evidence.

With the 20th Congress set to open on July 28, or after the May 12 midterm polls, the newly elected senators will take their oath on July 29, officially seating them as Impeachment Court judges. The trial will begin the next day, July 30, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily.

Escudero emphasized that the Senate is implementing security measures, logistical arrangements, and legal preparations to prevent unnecessary delays.

“We are ensuring that all necessary resources – from security protocols to legal support – are in place before proceedings begin,” he said.

The Senate has procured robes for senator judges, improved court documentation procedures, and engaged external legal consultants to assist in the case.

The House of Representatives transmitted to the Senate the verified impeachment complaint against Duterte on Feb. 5, triggering the Senate’s constitutional role as an Impeachment Court.

Escudero reiterated the importance of due process and impartiality, assuring the public that the Senate will uphold fairness throughout the proceedings.

“The integrity of this impeachment trial is paramount. We are duty-bound to conduct the process with professionalism and transparency,” he said.