Sara Duterte impeachment trial may conclude before Christmas break

Floyd Brenz., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
October 26, 2026

Photo Courtesy: US-ASEAN BUSINESS COUNCIL

The impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte could wrap up before the Christmas holidays as the defense prepares to present its evidence on the remaining charge of alleged unexplained wealth.

House prosecution panel adviser Robert Ace Barbers said the proceedings could finish within two weeks if the defense limits its presentation on the remaining article to eight trial days, as he understands it has requested.

Barbers made the assessment on October 24, citing the Senate impeachment court’s previous practice of holding hearings throughout the week before its Halloween recess.

However, he acknowledged that the defense could still use the full 30 trial days it originally requested for its presentation, which could affect the timetable.

The trial was shortened after the prosecution withdrew three of the four impeachment articles against Duterte. The withdrawn charges involved alleged misuse of confidential funds, bribery and grave threats, leaving the allegation of unexplained wealth as the focus of the proceedings.

Senate impeachment court presiding officer Francis Escudero said the defense would no longer need to present evidence specifically addressing the three withdrawn articles.

The Senate is scheduled to resume hearings in November, with sessions set for November 9 to 13, November 19 and 20, and November 23. No hearing is scheduled for November 30 because of the Bonifacio Day holiday.

While the reduced scope of the case may help accelerate the proceedings, the final timeline will depend on how much time the defense uses and the impeachment court’s schedule.

The remaining case centers on allegations concerning Duterte’s wealth and financial disclosures. The allegations remain subject to the impeachment proceedings, and the court has yet to issue a verdict.

The possibility of completing the trial before the holiday recess would bring the months-long proceedings closer to a conclusion, although an exact date for the final ruling has not been confirmed.