By Danielle Tiu
MANILA — The Senate on Monday formally activated its role as an impeachment court in the case against Vice President Sara Duterte.
Senator-judges were sworn in following the House’s transmission of impeachment articles, marking a key procedural milestone.
However, the trial itself has yet to begin. Both sides will first submit pleadings, followed by a pre-trial stage for evidence handling and case organization.
The Constitution gives the Senate flexibility on timing, requiring only that proceedings move forward within a “reasonable time.”
The impeachment complaint cites alleged misuse of confidential funds and betrayal of public trust.
Senate leadership remains under Alan Peter Cayetano amid ongoing political realignments within the chamber.
