The impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte is set to commence after President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA), Senate President Francis Escudero confirmed on Monday.
During a press conference, Escudero stated that the trial would likely begin once the new Congress resumes its functions. SONA is scheduled for July 21, meaning the proceedings will start sometime after that date.
President Marcos earlier expressed willingness to call a special Senate session to address Duterte’s impeachment if requested by the chamber. However, Escudero made it clear that he has no plans to make such a request, emphasizing that it is unnecessary.
“Who wants us to hold a special session and conduct a trial before the elections? Who is asking for that?” Escudero said in Filipino, adding that neither supporters nor opponents of the Vice President would influence the Senate’s decision.
He also defended the Senate’s handling of impeachment cases, saying they have always been given due process and that Duterte’s case should not be treated differently. “Why should I change how this impeachment complaint is handled? It’s not special or unique—it’s just another impeachment case against an impeachable official,” he said.
The impeachment proceedings are expected to be a key political event following SONA, with the Senate preparing to deliberate on the case under its established procedures.
