Philippines Senate Prepares Rules for Vice President Sara Duterte Impeachment Trial

As the Philippine Senate prepares to resume sessions following the May 12 midterm elections, attention centers on the impending impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte. Senators, including Joel Villanueva and Jinggoy Estrada, emphasize the trial's political complexity and the importance of upholding integrity, transparency, and due process, with the Senate expected to convene as an impeachment court on June 2. The impeachment process will begin with the establishment of the "rules of impeachment" to ensure a fair and organized trial. Meanwhile, eight of the eleven-member House prosecution panel involved in the trial are poised to retain their congressional seats, ensuring continuity in the prosecution team, although some members have lost or face uncertain election outcomes. Senators also highlighted the dual responsibility of legislators during this period, balancing legislative duties with their constitutional role as impeachment judges. This political event underscores the high stakes of the recent elections and the consequential role the incoming Senate will play in the trial.