The Senate impeachment court finished the first week of proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte on Article IV, which accuses her of grave threats against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and former Speaker Martin Romualdez.
The trial opened on July 6 with senators electing Sen. Francis “Chiz” Escudero as presiding officer by a 12-8 vote. Opening statements followed from both sides.
On July 7, prosecutors presented their first witness, NBI Senior Agent John Mark Calilung, who authenticated videos of Duterte’s November 2024 remarks. The defense cross-examined him the next day, questioning the investigation’s scope.
Malacañang stated that protecting politicians despite evidence of wrongdoing is a betrayal of the people. Hearings are scheduled to resume on July 13.
