Vice President Sara Duterte's impeachment trial advances in Philippine Senate

The Philippine Senate impeachment court resumed the trial of Vice President Sara Duterte on July 13, 2026, marking the second week of the first impeachment of a sitting vice president in the country's history. The trial began on July 6 and faces Duterte on four charges: misuse of confidential funds, unexplained wealth, bribery and grave threats. Senator Chiz Escudero serves as presiding officer after a 12‑8 vote.

Procedural disputes have surfaced, including a defense objection to a prosecutor speaking in Waray, a regional language, with the court reiterating that only Filipino and English may be used.

National Bureau of Investigation regional director Jeremy Lotoc testified that Duterte’s remarks toward President Marcos, the first lady and former speaker were “serious, real and actual,” rejecting claims they were protected speech. The prosecution presented video evidence and witness testimony to establish intent, while the defense challenged the admissibility and constitutional basis of the accusations.

Senators have also debated the voting threshold for conviction, with differing interpretations of whether a two‑thirds majority of all 24 senators or only those present is required.