Philippines VP Sara Duterte impeachment trial set for July 6

Senate Secretary Renato Bantug confirmed that the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte will open on July 6. He said surprise witnesses may be presented as long as each side gives at least three days’ notice, a procedure allowed by the Senate’s rules. The pre‑trial conference has already addressed evidence marking and logistical preparations.

Former Senate President Franklin Drilon warned that any attempt to hide evidence – likened to the “second envelope” controversy in the 2001 impeachment of former President Joseph Estrada – could trigger public backlash and political instability. He cited the Estrada case, where the refusal to open the envelope led to mass protests and the president’s ouster. Duterte faces accusations of misusing P612.5 million in confidential funds, bribing education officials, amassing unexplained wealth, and threatening senior government figures.