VP Sara Duterte Impeachment Trial Begins Under Tight Security in Manila

The Philippine National Police (PNP) deployed 3,250 cops to the Senate premises in Metro Manila on Monday, July 6, for the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte. In a press briefing, PNP chief Police Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said that, aside from the personnel deployed in the area, 2,900 others are on standby as part of the PNP’s Special Task Group “Senate Impeachment Proceedings.” Nartatez said the deployment is part of the PNP’s comprehensive Security and Deployment Plan “to ensure the safe, orderly, and peaceful conduct of this important constitutional process.” He also noted that additional CCTV cameras have been installed in key areas of the Senate, and nearby hospitals have been identified to ensure immediate emergency response if needed. “Our objective is simple—to provide a secure environment where the proceedings can move forward without disruption while respecting the rights of everyone to peacefully and lawfully express their views,” Nartatez added. The first day of Duterte’s impeachment trial is scheduled to begin at 2 p.m. on Monday. To convict and remove the vice president, or any elected government official through impeachment, at least two-thirds of the Senate must vote in favor. Should Duterte be removed from office, she could be perpetually disqualified from holding any public office. This trial is highly anticipated as it could impact the political stability and power dynamics within the current administration. The impeachment of a Vice President is a critical juncture for the Philippines' judicial and political systems, testing transparency and accountability.