Philippines Senate readies impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte

Labor lawyer Sonny Matula and Senator Robin Padilla have urged Senate President Sherwin “Win” Gatchalian to preside over the upcoming impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, citing constitutional rules that assign the Senate President the gavel in trials of officials below the presidency. The debate follows earlier suggestions that Senator Chiz Escudero might serve as presiding officer.

Duterte’s defense team, represented by lawyer Michael Poa, defended its witness list against accusations of mirroring the House prosecution’s roster, noting that many witnesses and exhibits are common in court proceedings. Both camps acknowledged the massive volume of evidence, with the prosecution estimating over 4,000 documents to be marked.

House prosecutor Rep. Gerville Luistro said the pre‑trial conference has been delayed because the defense refused a request for joint marking of common evidence, a step that could halve the time needed. The defense insists on separate markings to maintain control over its documents.

The pre‑trial briefing is expected to continue into late June, with the impeachment trial slated to begin on 6 July 2026. Duterte faces charges of betrayal of public trust, violation of the Constitution, graft, and other high crimes linked to the alleged misuse of more than ₱600 million in confidential funds and a plot to assassinate senior officials.