MANILA, Philippines — The Senate is nearly fully prepared for the upcoming impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, with robes for senators nearly complete, according to Senate Secretary Renato Bantug Jr.
“We’re just waiting for the final delivery—robes for two senators are still pending,” Bantug confirmed via text message to reporters on Thursday.
He said the supplier implemented a staggered delivery system on a first-in, first-out basis. Each robe costs approximately ₱7,000.
Senate Sets Tentative Trial Timeline
Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero earlier announced a tentative start date of July 30 for the impeachment trial. If the timeline holds, the Articles of Impeachment will be presented to the Senate on June 2, coinciding with the resumption of legislative sessions. The Senate impeachment court would be convened the following day.
Duterte Seeks SC Relief Amid Legal Challenges
The House of Representatives impeached Vice President Duterte on February 5, with over 200 lawmakers endorsing the complaint, which was transmitted to the Senate the same day. However, the Senate adjourned without taking further action.
Duterte has since filed a petition with the Supreme Court, challenging the validity of the impeachment complaint.
Several other legal petitions have also been filed:
A group of Mindanao-based lawyers is asking the SC to halt the trial, citing defects in the complaint.
Another petition from lawyer Catalino Generillo Jr. seeks to compel the Senate to immediately convene as an impeachment court.