MANILA, Philippines – The impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte is expected to begin in the 20th Congress, which starts after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA) in July 2025.
Senate President Francis Escudero explained this in a press conference on Monday, saying:
👉 “The actual trial will begin in the 20th Congress.”
👉 “Most likely, when the new Congress starts working, which means after SONA.”
Why Is There an Impeachment Trial?
The House of Representatives sent the Articles of Impeachment (a document listing the complaints against Vice President Duterte) to the Senate on February 5, 2024.
However, the Senate did not act on it immediately because they needed time to formally receive the document.
What Happens Before the Trial Starts?
Senate President Escudero explained that before the actual trial happens, the Senate must:
✅ Approve the official rules for the impeachment trial
✅ Issue summonses (formal notices) to people involved
✅ Conduct a pre-trial briefing (a meeting to organize the case)
When Will the Trial Begin?
📅 President Marcos Jr. will deliver his fourth SONA on July 28, 2025.
📅 The 20th Congress will officially begin on the same day.
📅 The Senate will NOT hold a special session just for the impeachment.
The Senate adjourned (ended its session) on February 8, 2024 and will resume on June 2, 2024.
What Happens During the Recess?
Even though the Senate is on break, they will still approve the rules for the trial.
📌 Just like in the impeachment of former Supreme Court Justice Renato Corona, the Senate will:
✔️ Issue summonses (official orders for people to appear)
✔️ Prepare judicial affidavits (sworn statements from witnesses)
Once all of these preparations are done, the actual impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte can begin after SONA 2025.
