Manila: The Senate impeachment court may adjust how and when it holds hearings once the chamber's budget calendar is fixed, even as Presiding Officer Francis 'Chiz' Escudero said Tuesday that the trial of Vice President Sara Duterte is still expected to be completed before year-end.
According to Philippines News Agency, the clarification came after Senator-judge Juan Miguel Zubiri asked the court for a broad timetable as the Senate prepares for lengthy deliberations on the proposed 2027 national budget alongside regular legislative and committee work. Zubiri inquired about the plan, questioning whether the proceedings would extend into December, as senators and their staff face the challenge of balancing impeachment hearings with budget discussions that could extend through Saturdays.
Escudero mentioned that the court could not yet lock in a detailed calendar because it would have to consider the schedule to be prepared by the Senate Committee on Finance. He emphasized the importance of the national budget, labeling it as the most crucial legislation that the Senate must pass before year-end, while also allowing sufficient time for bicameral conference committee deliberations and consideration of the House-approved General Appropriations Bill.
Escudero indicated that once the budget calendar is set, the impeachment court could determine whether adjustments in its schedule are necessary. This would provide a clearer timeline and schedule, allowing for potential shifts in how and when hearings are conducted.
Zubiri stressed the need for a timetable not only for the impeachment case but also for making corresponding adjustments in the chamber's legislative calendar. Having an impeachment calendar would guide senators accordingly.
The court has been refining its trial-management rules as the schedule becomes tighter. Escudero clarified that witnesses for the following week should generally be disclosed in open court on the preceding Wednesday. Both sides may be given additional preparation time when necessary to ensure fairness. He also reminded the prosecution and defense to submit proposed stipulations at least a day before the witness is presented, allowing the opposing side time to study them and potentially shorten proceedings by agreeing on uncontested facts or documents.
The impeachment court will resume Wednesday morning with the cross-examination of Office of the Vice President Assistant Secretary Lemuel Ortonio, followed by possible redirect, recross, and clarificatory questions from senator-judges.
