Former Senate President Franklin Drilon warned that attempts to conceal evidence in the upcoming impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte could spark public backlash and political instability.
In a statement on Friday, Drilon likened the situation to the 2001 impeachment trial of former President Joseph Estrada. Senator-judges then voted 11-10 against opening the so-called “second envelope” believed to contain further evidence.
Senate Secretary Renato Bantug confirmed on Saturday that the trial will open on July 6. Duterte faces charges including misuse of P612.5 million in confidential funds and other allegations.
Civil society groups also voiced concern over possible evidence suppression. They stressed that the process must remain transparent to preserve public trust.
