Senate President Francis "Chiz" Escudero sent a letter to Vice President Sara Duterte outlining the timetable and preparations he commenced concerning the impeachment trial.
In a letter dated February 24, Escudero informed Duterte that he had already initiated the necessary procedures in accordance with applicable laws, rules, guidelines, and precedents to ensure a "fair and orderly" impeachment trial.
LOOK: VP @indaysara Duterte pinadalahan ng liham ni SP @SayChiz Escudero kung saan inilatag na ang mga ginagawang paghahanda para sa impeachment trial. | RH 28 @RaymundDadpaas, DZRH News pic.twitter.com/85GZtsXO3d
— DZRH NEWS (@dzrhnews) February 27, 2025
Escudero has initially directed the review of the Rules of Procedure in Impeachment Trials to identify any potential amendments.
Furthermore, he also assessed the appropriate seating arrangements in the session hall to accommodate the Senate as an impeachment court.
He also initiated the implementation of enhanced security measures and visitor registration procedures, as well as the establishment of designated areas for prosecution, defense, media, and other guests.
Another aspect of the preparation involves enhancing redundant systems for internet connectivity, electricity supply, and the establishment of other logistical requirements.
The necessary equipment and supplies, including robes for the Senator-judges, have also been procured.
Moreover, the engagement of external counsel, legal consultants, and researchers has also taken place.
An e-filing system was also established for receiving digital copies of pleadings from the parties and transmitting resolutions or orders from the impeachment court to the parties and their counsel.
Meanwhile, the initial timetable for procedures related to the impeachment trial of Duterte is tentatively set to begin on July 30.
House prosecutors may present the Articles of Impeachment to the Senate when the chamber reconvenes on June 2, followed by the approval of the revised Rules of Procedure for Impeachment Trials.
Escudero has laid out the proposed calendar of activities for the impeachment trial to his colleagues in the Senate, with copies also sent to House Speaker Martin Romualdez and Vice President Sara Duterte.
However, he clarified that the timetable is merely a proposal and is not final, as it will depend on the approval of the majority of the Senators.
WATCH: Proposed calendar of activities para sa impeachment trial ni VP @indaysara Duterte, inilatag na ni SP @SayChiz Escudero | RH 28 @RaymundDadpaas, DZRH News pic.twitter.com/JNcBtdorIN
— DZRH NEWS (@dzrhnews) February 27, 2025
