VICE President Sara Duterte confirmed on Tuesday that she will be proceeding to the Senate, stating that she intends to meet with her legal defense team amid her ongoing impeachment proceedings.
Duterte explained that she has no official engagements scheduled at the Office of the Vice President, making it possible for her to travel to the Senate premises. When directly asked if she would be attending the actual impeachment trial session, she clarified that her purpose for the visit is to hold discussions with her lawyers rather than join the proceedings immediately.
Senate officials also confirmed receiving word of the vice president’s expected arrival, though they noted that her attendance is not yet fully confirmed. Senate Sergeant‑at‑Arms Alfred Corpus told reporters that while the office was informed of her possible visit, there remains some uncertainty until she actually arrives.
“They gave coordination but we don’t know if she’s coming,” Corpus said. Even so, preparations were put in place, and members of Duterte’s security detail were already seen at the Senate grounds earlier in the morning as they awaited her arrival.
Corpus assured the public and the media that the Senate is fully prepared to accommodate the vice president should she push through with her plan.
The development marks the first time Duterte has signaled her intention to be physically present at the Senate since the start of the trial, following her absence during the opening session. Whether her visit will extend beyond consultations with her legal team and into the courtroom remains to be seen, but her presence would represent a significant moment in the proceedings as both sides prepare to present their arguments before the Impeachment Court.
metrosundaily
