Politics · Philippines Bureau
Prosecution seeks extended hours for Duterte impeachment trial
A legal adviser to the prosecution has urged the Senate Impeachment Court to consider lengthening daily sessions or adding hearing days to accelerate Vice President Sara Duterte's trial. The recommendation comes as the proceedings enter their third week, amid concerns about public attention span.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — The Senate Impeachment Court should explore extending its daily hearing hours or scheduling additional trial days to expedite the proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte, according to Robert Ace Barbers, an adviser to the prosecution panel.
Barbers raised the suggestion over the weekend as the impeachment trial marked its 19th day of proceedings. He expressed concern that prolonged trial duration may be testing public patience and engagement with the case.
The prosecution's call for accelerated proceedings reflects growing pressure to move the high-profile case forward. The trial, which centers on charges brought against the Vice President, has drawn significant media attention and public scrutiny since its commencement.
The Senate Impeachment Court, which serves as the tribunal for impeachment trials under Philippine law, would need to approve any modifications to the trial schedule. Such decisions typically balance the need for thorough examination of evidence and testimony against the desire to reach expeditious resolution.
The trial's progression remains closely watched by political observers and the Filipino public as it continues to unfold in the coming weeks.