LOOK: Proposed timetable for impeachment trial against VP Sara Duterte

2 months ago 12

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Proposed timetable for impeachment trial against VP Sara Duterte

File photo of Senate President Chiz Escudero

Angie de Silva/Rappler

The Senate President releases the timetable amid calls from critics to begin the proceedings immediately, citing the Constitution's use of the word 'forthwith'

MANILA, Philippines – Senate President Chiz Escudero on Thursday, February 27, made public his proposed timetable for the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, setting the trial for July 30.

The proposed timetable was included in his letter to senators on Monday, February 24. A separate letter was also sent to the House of Representatives and the Office of the Vice President on Thursday.

Below is the proposed timeline of activities:

June 2, 2025 – resumption of session; presentation of the articles of Impeachment by the prosecutors; and approval of the revised rules of procedure on impeachment trials (3 pm)
June 3, 2025 – convening of the impeachment court and oath-taking of incumbent senator-judges (9 am)
June 4, 2025 – reception of pleadings
June 24 to July 25, 2025 – pre-trial
July 28, 2025 – inaugural session of the 20th Congress (10 am); joint session of Congress to hear the President’s State of the Nation Address (4 pm)
July 29, 2025 – oath-taking of newly elected senator-judges before the Senate, sitting as an impeachment court (9 am); plenary session of the Senate (3 pm)
July 30, 2025 – start of trial (9 am to 2 pm)

Escudero said the schedule is not yet final.

“The Senate hopes to adhere to the foregoing schedule and considering, that both the prosecution and defense will have ample time to prepare for the proceedings, will not tolerate any dilatory motion or pleading,” he wrote.

Escudero released the timetable amid calls from critics for the Senate to begin the proceedings immediately, citing the Constitution’s use of the word “forthwith.” However, Escudero maintained that no trial would take place while Congress is on break.