The defense team of Vice President Sara Duterte assured the public that it would comply with all procedures set by the impeachment court and submit the appropriate response based on the Constitution and the rules established by the tribunal.
The statement came after the Senate of the Philippines formally convened as an impeachment court on Monday for the case against the vice president.
In a statement, Duterte’s camp acknowledged the Senate’s move to begin the formal impeachment proceedings and said it expects the court to issue a summons.
During the session, Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano ordered that the vice president be given 10 days upon receipt of the order to submit her answer to the accusations. Duterte was also directed to appear before the Senate “upon notice.”
The impeachment court also gave the prosecution panel five days to respond once the defense team submits its reply.
The Senate further allowed the electronic filing of all pleadings and motions related to the impeachment proceedings.
Vice President Sara Duterte is facing an impeachment complaint that includes allegations of misuse of public funds, unexplained wealth, bribery, and threats against top government officials.
The defense team did not discuss the merits of the allegations but emphasized that it would follow the constitutional process and comply with the rules issued by the impeachment court.
