House forms secretariat to support impeachment trial of VP Sara Duterte

The House of Representatives has established a secretariat to provide administrative and technical assistance to its prosecution panel in the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte.

House Secretary General Reginald Velasco issued a memorandum detailing the formation of the secretariat, which consists of 134 personnel from various key departments, including the Office of the Secretary General, Office of the Sergeant-at-Arms, Legislative Operations Department, and Legal Affairs Department.

The secretariat will be responsible for supporting the impeachment proceedings by handling legal research, records management, stenographic transcription, IT services, security, and administrative coordination.

Velasco emphasized the importance of the secretariat in ensuring the smooth conduct of the trial, stating that it will provide essential logistical and research support to facilitate an efficient process. He also assured that the personnel involved will operate with neutrality and professionalism, in line with House rules and ethical standards.

“This is a routine function aligned with our constitutional duty. The House Secretariat remains neutral and professional in fulfilling its mandate,” he said.