THE next House hearing on the impeachment complaints against Vice President Sara Z. Duterte may become the first full live public airing of the initial evidence behind the complaints, after Manila Rep. Joel Chua signaled that the committee stage can now do more than screen pleadings and procedural issues.
The House Committee on Justice on March 18 found the complaints sufficient in grounds and scheduled the hearings on March 25, and April 14, 22, and 29, 2026.
Chua said the current process before the House Committee on Justice allows the presentation and discussion of evidence even before the case reaches the Senate for trial.
“Dito kasi, ang determination lamang nito is probable cause,” Chua said. “After determining the sufficient ground kahapon (Wednesday), formal hearing na kami this March 25, April 14, 22, and 29,” Chua said.
He noted that unlike previous expectations that evidence would largely be presented during the Senate trial, the House proceedings now provide a venue for laying out the factual basis of the complaint at an earlier stage.
“Ang ano lang naman dito sa amin… yung recital of facts lang. That there is an offense,” he said.
Chua stressed that the process at the House is not yet a trial but a determination of whether there is enough basis for the case to move forward.
Chua said the House is committed to upholding due process while carrying out its mandate, emphasizing that both sides will be given the chance to present their positions within the framework of the rules
metrosundaily
