Senate Moves Forward with Impeachment Trial Against VP Sara Duterte – Escudero Speaks Out!

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Senate President Francis "Chiz" Escudero has formally notified Vice President Sara Duterte regarding the Senate’s preparations for the impeachment trial following the transmission of the Verified Impeachment Complaint from the House of Representatives on February 5, 2025.

In a letter addressed to the Vice President, Escudero outlined the steps taken by the Senate to ensure that the trial proceeds in an orderly, transparent, and fair manner, in full compliance with constitutional provisions and established legal procedures.

Senate Preparations for the Impeachment Trial

To facilitate the trial, the Senate has initiated the following measures:

Reviewing the Rules of Procedure on Impeachment Trials to assess necessary amendments.

Preparing the Senate session hall to accommodate the Senators as judges, the prosecution, the defense, and the media.

Implementing enhanced security protocols, including visitor registration and designated areas for trial participants.

Strengthening logistical and technical support, ensuring stable internet connectivity, power supply, and digital documentation of proceedings.

Procuring essential trial materials, including robes for Senator-judges and necessary legal references.

Engaging external legal experts, consultants, and researchers to provide objective guidance throughout the process.

Establishing an e-filing system for the submission of pleadings and court orders.

"The Senate remains committed to upholding the rule of law, due process, and judicial fairness. This impeachment trial is not merely a legal proceeding—it is a solemn responsibility that requires the highest standards of integrity and impartiality," Escudero stated.

Impeachment Charges and Legal Challenges

The impeachment complaint, which was approved by 215 members of the House of Representatives, includes allegations of:

Conspiracy to assassinate President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

Corruption and misuse of public funds

Unconstitutional acts violating public trust

While the Senate prepares for the trial, Vice President Duterte’s legal team has challenged the impeachment process before the Supreme Court, arguing that the complaint is politically motivated and lacks constitutional basis.

Senate's Role as the Impeachment Court

As mandated by the Philippine Constitution, the Senate will serve as the impeachment court, with Senator-Judges tasked with determining whether the Vice President should be removed from office. Escudero emphasized that all deliberations will be fact-based, independent, and free from political influence.

"The Senate is committed to conducting a trial that is fair, transparent, and grounded in justice. Every step will be taken to ensure that both the prosecution and defense have an equal opportunity to present their case," Escudero added.

Next Steps

A proposed calendar of proceedings has been distributed to all Senators. The Senate is expected to formally convene as an impeachment court in the coming weeks.

Escudero assured the public that the trial will adhere to a strict schedule and that the Senate will not tolerate any unnecessary delays or motions aimed at prolonging the proceedings.

"The nation deserves clarity, and we owe it to the Filipino people to resolve this matter with integrity, speed, and impartiality," Escudero concluded.

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