Senate ‘ready, funded’ for possible VP Duterte impeachment trial

By Wilnard Bacelonia, Philippine News Agency

(Senate of the Philippines/facebook)

MANILA – The Senate has sufficient funds and is prepared to conduct a possible impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson assured Tuesday.

Lacson, who also chairs the Senate Committee on Accounts, said only around PHP500,000 has been spent from the PHP27-million allocation under the 2025 General Appropriations Act (GAA) for impeachment proceedings.

“There’s at least PHP27 million under the 2025 GAA… around PHP500,000 was spent when last year’s Articles of Impeachment against VP Duterte was transmitted to the Senate,” he said.

He noted that the allocation falls under continuing appropriations, making it available for use beyond the current fiscal year.

“Since the fund is good for two years under continuing appropriations, the Senate is financially able and ready to conduct the trial if and when the Articles of Impeachment are transmitted,” he added.

Lacson earlier said senators, including Senate President Vicente Sotto III, have been preparing for a possible impeachment trial should the House of Representatives elevate the case.

He maintained that his decision as a potential senator-judge would be based on evidence, and reminded colleagues to observe proper conduct if the Senate convenes as an impeachment court.