Impeachment Trial of VP Sara Duterte Set to Begin Immediately After SONA
SARA DUTERTE – The impeachment trial of VP Sara Duterte is scheduled to commence immediately after the State of the Nation Address (SONA).
The impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte is set to commence after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 21, according to Senate President Francis Escudero.
Escudero confirmed to Senate reporters that the trial would officially begin “when the new Congress enters into its function.” He clarified that while the Senate will resume sessions on June 2, the trial cannot proceed immediately due to necessary preparations, including finalizing impeachment rules and ensuring due process.
Fair Treatment Assured
Escudero reiterated that Duterte would receive fair treatment throughout the proceedings, emphasizing that senators will act as impartial judges in the impeachment court. He assured that Duterte would not be compelled to attend the trial in person unless necessary.
“She’s free to say what she wants, but if she needs to attend, we will make her attend. If she doesn’t need to attend, we won’t force her,” Escudero stated, highlighting Duterte’s right to waive her appearance unless required.
Should Duterte choose to testify, Escudero, a lawyer himself, noted that any direct testimony would be subject to cross-examination before being considered admissible. He also clarified that Duterte’s attendance, whether as a spectator or legal representative for herself, would dictate the manner in which she is treated during the trial.
Calls for Immediate Trial
Several lawmakers and various sectors have urged the Senate to expedite the impeachment trial. One possible avenue is for President Marcos to call a special session, which would allow the Senate to convene as an impeachment court sooner. However, Escudero explained that due to procedural requirements and the adjournment of the 19th Congress on June 30, an immediate trial is not feasible.
According to the report, among the key preparations is the adoption of permanent impeachment rules, which are currently being drafted and will be debated once Congress reconvenes. Additionally, Duterte must be given time—typically ten days, with possible extensions—to respond to the Articles of Impeachment. This will be followed by a response from the prosecution, leading to further proceedings and rejoinders.
Expected Timeline
Escudero projected that by July, senators serving as impeachment court judges will be seen in the Senate session hall donning their judicial robes. If a pre-trial is held and the trial proceeds four times a week, Escudero estimated that the proceedings could be completed within two to three months.
The impeachment trial is expected to be a historic and highly scrutinized event in Philippine politics, with significant implications for the country’s leadership and governance.
READ ALSO: Sandro Marcos Explains Why He Signed Impeachment Rap vs VP Sara Duterte
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