Photo courtesy of Inday Sara Duterte/Facebook.
House Deputy Speaker Janette Garin said preparations by the Senate for a possible impeachment trial would help ensure an orderly and timely process should the case against Vice President Sara Duterte be elevated.
Garin welcomed what she described as the Senate’s readiness, noting that logistical arrangements were being made as the House committee on justice nears the end of its hearings on April 29.
She said early preparations would allow constitutional institutions to carry out their respective roles without unnecessary delay once the matter is transmitted.
In a statement, Garin said the House had been working to build the evidentiary record in accordance with rules and procedures.
Senate President Vicente Sotto III earlier said the chamber could convene as an impeachment court as early as May 4, once Congress resumes session after its break, if the articles of impeachment are transmitted.
The House committee on justice recently held its third hearing to determine whether the complaints against Duterte have sufficient basis and probable cause.
Allegations presented in the proceedings include the supposed misuse of confidential funds and unexplained wealth, which were discussed alongside reports from the Anti-Money Laundering Council and the Office of the Ombudsman.
Garin said the process should remain fair and transparent, stressing that it was not intended to prejudge any outcome but to allow facts to be examined in the proper forum.