The Philippine Senate will convene as an impeachment court on Monday to begin proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte. Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano confirmed the session in a letter to colleagues. The move follows the House vote approving articles of impeachment.
The Senate received the articles of impeachment from the House on May 13. Cayetano stated that the chamber will convene at 3 p.m. on May 18 in accordance with Senate rules and the Constitution. Senators were directed to wear their crimson robes for the session.
House prosecutor Terry Ridon noted strong support for impeachment across regions. Official tallies showed 257 votes in favor, including majorities from the Visayas and Mindanao. The charges include alleged misuse of confidential funds and other offenses.
The 11-member House prosecution panel has been assigned specific grounds to present during the trial. Ridon said members will cover allegations such as unexplained wealth and bribery.