House Backs Longer Trial Days for VP Duterte Impeachment

MANILA, Philippines — House leaders and impeachment prosecutors are amenable to proposals for longer trial days, even whole-day sessions, for Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment case to help both prosecution and defense present their evidence faster before the Senate gets busy with the 2027 national budget. "We welcome that. We know that there’s a time element," impeachment prosecutors said. They said that the Senate’s schedule for the 2027 national budget, which is expected to take up the bulk of its time, would be affected if the impeachment trial drags on. "We are hoping that the trial would be concluded within the year," they added. For their part, House leaders said they are amenable to the proposals to shorten the trial period. "We are one with the prosecution in pushing for a speedy resolution of the case," they said. They added that they are also willing to discuss with the Senate on how to expedite the proceedings. "We are willing to do whatever it takes to ensure that justice is served," they said. Meanwhile, Vice President Duterte has repeatedly denied the allegations against her. Her camp has also expressed willingness to face the impeachment charges and present their evidence. "We are confident that the Vice President will be cleared of all charges," her spokesperson said. The impeachment case against Duterte was initiated by a complaint filed by Representative Edcel Lagman. Lagman accused Duterte of culpable violation of the Constitution and betrayal of public trust. The impeachment complaint is now pending before the Senate committee on justice and human rights.