The Senate officially convened as an impeachment court on Monday to begin the historic trial of Sara Duterte, ordering her to file a response to the Articles of Impeachment within a non-extendible 10 calendar days.
Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano administered the oath to senator-judges and directed the issuance of a writ of summons, while Duterte’s legal team confirmed it would comply with the process.
The House prosecution panel, led by Gerville Luistro, said it is ready to present evidence once the trial proceeds, with the prosecution given five calendar days to reply after Duterte files her answer.
Authorities also heightened security in Metro Manila and Davao City amid protests and demonstrations from both Duterte supporters and activist groups outside the Senate.
Malacañang, meanwhile, emphasized the importance of accountability and said Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will not interfere in the impeachment proceedings.
Source: PhilNews24 | May 19, 2026
