The Senate, acting as an impeachment court, is poised to begin the trial of Vice President Sara Duterte—but only after the House of Representatives completes key procedural requirements.
The impeachment complaint, which accuses Duterte of misuse of public funds and abuse of authority, has already been approved by the House Committee on Justice. However, the case cannot move forward until two certifications are transmitted to the Senate: one confirming that only a single complaint was filed this year, and another affirming the House’s intent to pursue the case during the current Congress.
So far, only the first certification has reportedly been submitted.
Senate spokesperson Reginald Tongol reiterated that the court will not convene until all documents are in order. “The convening of the impeachment court depends on certification from the House of Representatives,” he said, emphasizing the need to uphold constitutional safeguards.
The Senate is expected to reconvene on July 29, a day after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. delivers his State of the Nation Address and formally opens the 20th Congress. Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri confirmed that preparations for the trial are underway, but stressed they remain in limbo pending full House compliance.
As anticipation builds, lawmakers and legal experts are calling for a fair and transparent process. Tongol cautioned against rushing or politicizing the proceedings, warning that it could undermine the court’s integrity and public confidence.
With both chambers under scrutiny, the impeachment case against the Vice President enters a crucial phase. The Senate remains on standby, ready to begin what could be one of the most significant political trials in recent history—once the House makes its move.
