The Senate is set to begin the impeachment trial of Vice-President Sara Duterte-Carpio on July 6, with preparations entering the final stage.
Senate President Sherwin T. Gatchalian said that the Senate is "very prepared" for the trial, which will take place at the Senate. He added that the physical inspection of the venue and security arrangements is ongoing, with improvements being made as needed.
Despite the suspension of Senator Jose "Jinggoy" P. Ejercito Estrada and the absence of Senator Ronald "Bato" M. dela Rosa, the impeachment court will still have 24 seats for senator-judges. The court will accommodate as many as 150 members of the public who wish to observe the proceedings in person, with registration to be done on a first-come, first-served basis.
The prosecution has listed 57 witnesses, including those who allegedly received confidential funds from the Office of the Vice-President. The defense has identified 45 witnesses, including former Executive Secretary Lucas P. Bersamin and former Budget Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman.
The pre-trial order has been released, outlining the schedule and rules for the trial. Hearings will take place at 2 p.m. every Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday until July 27, with sessions starting at 3 p.m. every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday beginning July 28.
The impeachment court has also approved the use of both English and Filipino during the proceedings, a proposal earlier sought by the prosecution. Both parties have been directed to submit comments on the pre-trial order within three days of receiving it.
Vice-President Duterte faces four articles of impeachment accusing her of misuse of confidential funds, unexplained wealth, bribery, and plotting to assassinate President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos, and Leyte Rep. and ex-Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez. She has denied the allegations.
