Escudero orders strict ban on public comments on merits of VP Sara impeachment trial

Abi Sarabia M., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
August 27, 2026

Photo courtesy: Senate of the Philippines Facebook Page

MANILA, Philippines — Senate Impeachment Court Presiding Officer Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero has ordered senator-judges, prosecutors, Vice President Sara Duterte, their lawyers and witnesses to refrain from publicly commenting on the merits of the pending impeachment trial.

In a ruling issued Wednesday, August 26, Escudero ordered the strict enforcement of Rule 18 of the Rules on Impeachment, which prohibits covered parties from making public comments or disclosures about the merits of an ongoing impeachment case.

The restriction covers statements that assess disputed facts, the credibility of witnesses, the sufficiency of evidence, the strength of an impeachment charge or defense, or the likely outcome of the trial.

Escudero said the rule is intended to protect the integrity of the proceedings and prevent the case from being litigated through interviews, social media posts or other forms of publicity rather than before the impeachment court.

The ruling followed concerns over public statements made by individuals involved in the trial, including a Facebook post by prosecution counsel Amando Ligutan that was raised by defense lead counsel Sheila Sison on August 12.

Escudero also encouraged the prosecution and defense to appoint spokespersons who are not members of their active legal teams.

Lawyers who remain counsels of record while serving as spokespersons must continue to comply with Rule 18. They may instead formally withdraw as counsel if they intend to serve solely as spokespersons.

Escudero also adopted a two-strike policy for violations. A first offense may result in a severe public reprimand and stern admonition entered into the court record, while a second and succeeding offense may carry a fine of up to ₱30,000 per violation. In certain cases, an offending lawyer or party may also face restrictions on participating in proceedings.

Lawyers may additionally face possible referral to the Office of the Bar Confidant, Integrated Bar of the Philippines or Supreme Court for disciplinary proceedings.

Escudero stressed that the restriction does not prevent the parties from vigorously presenting their evidence and arguments inside the impeachment court, but requires restraint in discussing the case publicly.

The directive was issued on the 19th day of Duterte’s impeachment trial, as the Senate impeachment court continued hearing Article I of the Articles of Impeachment, which involves allegations concerning the use of confidential funds by the Office of the Vice President and the Department of Education.