House pushes extended trial sessions to speed up VP Duterte impeachment

MANILA — Legislative leaders pushing forward with Vice President Sara Duterte's impeachment case are endorsing extended trial schedules to expedite the proceedings in the Senate.

House impeachment prosecutors and chamber leadership have expressed support for proposals to hold longer daily sessions and potentially conduct full-day hearings. The approach would allow both the prosecution and defense to present evidence more rapidly, addressing concerns about timeline constraints as the Senate faces competing legislative priorities.

The push for accelerated proceedings reflects mounting pressure to resolve the high-profile case before the upper chamber becomes consumed with deliberations on the 2027 national budget. Officials acknowledge the time-sensitive nature of the impeachment trial and the need to maintain legislative momentum.

The proposals signal broader agreement between House leaders and prosecutors on the necessity of expedited proceedings, though the Senate ultimately holds jurisdiction over the trial's scheduling and conduct. The extended session format represents an effort to balance thoroughness with efficiency in what promises to be a consequential political proceeding.