SENATE President Francis “Chiz” Escudero has released an initial timetable for the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, scheduled to commence on July 30. In a letter dated February 24, Escudero shared the proposed calendar with fellow senators, including Duterte herself, House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, and the media.
The proposed timeline outlines the following key dates:
- June 2, 3 p.m.: Resumption of Senate session, presentation of Articles of Impeachment by prosecutors, and approval of revised impeachment trial rules.
- June 3, 9 a.m.: Convening of the Impeachment Court and oath-taking of senator-judges.
- June 4: Issuance of summons.
- June 14 to 24: Reception of pleadings.
- June 24 to July 25: Pre-trial proceedings.
- July 28: Inaugural session of the 20th Congress (10 a.m.); Joint Session of Congress to hear the State of the Nation Address (4 p.m.).
- July 29: Oath-taking of newly elected senator-judges before the Impeachment Court (9 a.m.); Plenary session of the Senate (3 p.m.).
- July 30: Start of trial (9 a.m. to 2 p.m.).
Escudero emphasized that this timeline is subject to discussion and revision by the Senate upon their return to session on June 2. He underscored the importance of transparency by providing copies of the proposed calendar to Duterte and Romualdez for their reference.
Escudero also issued a Special Order designating specific Senate offices to provide administrative support for the Impeachment Court. He defended his position to commence the trial during a regular Senate session, citing legal precedents and past interpretations of the “forthwith” provision regarding impeachment proceedings under the 1987 Constitution.
In his letter, Escudero proposed amendments to the existing Rules of Procedure:
- Authorizing the Senate President to issue summons, preside over pre-trial proceedings, and receive judicial affidavits.
- Incorporating provisions from the Revised Rules of Court regarding judicial affidavits, pre-trial conferences, evidence reception, electronic filing, and other relevant matters.
- Providing clear guidance for procedures in case the trial is not concluded before the end of the Congressional session.
These proposed amendments will be circulated to all senators for review and comment by March 31, aiming for approval in plenary session on June 2.
Escudero also outlined preparations for the impeachment trial in a separate letter to Duterte and Romualdez:
- Review of the Rules of Procedure for possible amendments and drafting of impeachment court forms.
- Determination of appropriate physical arrangements in the session hall.
- Implementation of enhanced security and visitor registration procedures, with designated areas for legal teams, media, and guests.
- Improvement of internet and electricity systems, and logistical arrangements for a continuous and transparent trial.
- Procurement of necessary equipment and supplies, including robes for senator-judges.
- Engagement of external counsel, legal consultants, and researchers.
- Establishment of an e-filing system for digital pleadings and transmission of resolutions and orders.
The House of Representatives approved the impeachment against Duterte on February 5, with 215 congressmen signing the Articles of Impeachment. The Articles were transmitted to the Senate on the same day, coinciding with the adjournment of the session.
