By Dhel Nazario
Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian announced on Tuesday, June 30, that the Senate is fully prepared to begin Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment trial on July 6.
“We’re very prepared. Handa na tayo,” Gatchalian told reporters, noting that final inspections of the Senate facilities were underway to ensure readiness for both the prosecution and defense teams.
He confirmed that no further pre‑trial conferences are scheduled before the opening of the proceedings.
Gatchalian, joined by Senate Secretary and Impeachment Court Clerk Renato Bantug Jr., led a walkthrough of key areas to be used during the trial, checking their condition and layout.
He acknowledged that while space is limited, arrangements have been made to accommodate all parties.
The Senate chief previously said the trial could last seven to eight months, depending on the pace of evidence presentation, witness testimonies, and procedural motions.
Asked about the sealed Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) box that surfaced during pre‑trial, Gatchalian said its fate would be determined by the impeachment court once raised, but clarified it would not necessarily be the first matter tackled when proceedings begin.
