Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero assured the public that the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte will proceed in accordance with the law. However, he clarified that the Senate’s possible convening as an impeachment court on August 4 is not yet final.
The clarification came after Senator Joel Villanueva earlier mentioned the tentative date for the trial. Escudero said the matter still needs to be brought to the plenary for formal discussion and approval.
He explained that the proposed rescheduling is meant to give both parties enough time to be notified and to prepare accordingly. The goal, he added, is to ensure fairness and due process.
If the August 4 date is confirmed, the Senate will first focus on internal matters when the 20th Congress opens. This includes organizing its committees and finalizing chairmanship assignments before handling the impeachment proceedings.
Escudero also emphasized that the Senate is committed to observing the proper legal process in handling the case.
The impeachment trial of Vice President Duterte is among the most anticipated political events of the year. While the Senate has yet to release a final timeline, the assurance from the chamber’s leadership indicates that preparations are underway.
As of this writing, Vice President Duterte has not issued a statement regarding the latest developments.
