In the lead-up to the highly anticipated Senate impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, several private lawyers have stepped forward to assist the House prosecution team. Iloilo Representative Lorenz Defensor, a key member of the 11-person prosecution panel, confirmed the growing legal support but refrained from revealing specific names. According to Defensor, these experienced legal professionals are eager to contribute to the proceedings, aiming to strengthen the case against the Vice President and secure a conviction.
Despite the Senate not yet convening as an impeachment court, the House prosecutors are diligently preparing their case. Their preparations involve crafting legal strategies, gathering documentary evidence, and organizing witness testimonies. The trial is expected to commence in late July, following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s State of the Nation Address and the opening of the 20th Congress.
The impeachment complaint against Vice President Duterte has been endorsed by 215 lawmakers and accuses her of multiple serious offenses, including:
- Culpable violation of the Constitution
- Bribery
- Graft and corruption
- Betrayal of public trust
- Other high crimes
One of the most controversial allegations in the complaint is the supposed misuse of approximately ₱612.5 million in confidential funds allocated to the Office of the Vice President and the Department of Education, which Duterte previously led as secretary. Since the complaint’s transmission to the Senate on February 5, an additional 25 lawmakers have added their endorsements, signaling strong support for her removal.
The prosecution team is still deliberating on appointing a lead prosecutor. Defensor emphasized that assignments within the team will be based on expertise, ensuring that each article of impeachment is handled by the most qualified members. Given the complexity of the charges, some prosecutors may take on multiple articles, particularly those that overlap, such as betrayal of public trust and culpable violation of the Constitution.
Another major accusation involves claims that Duterte conspired to assassinate President Marcos, First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and House Speaker Martin Romualdez. This, along with the alleged mismanagement of confidential funds and destabilizing actions as vice president, will be central to the trial.
For Duterte to be convicted and removed from office, at least two-thirds of the Senate, or 16 votes, are required. While she has hinted at possibly abstaining from the trial, Defensor insists her presence is crucial for accountability. As the proceedings draw nearer, the collaboration between the House prosecutors and private legal experts highlights the trial’s significance and the drive for a just resolution.