Metro Manila, Philippines — The impeachment court could reach a verdict in the case of Vice President Sara Duterte by Dec. 16, based on the current pace of proceedings, said court spokesperson Regie Tongol.
Tongol said the House prosecution panel is around 20 days ahead of the 62 days allotted under the pre-trial order, largely because it dropped some witnesses and did not use all its scheduled hearing days.
“If they will finish and not add any witnesses, they might finish Thursday or Friday next week,” Tongol said.
The prosecution has used about eight of the 12 days it initially requested for Article II, which alleges that Duterte amassed unexplained wealth, failed to truthfully disclose her assets in her SALNs, and did not divest from business interests.
However, Tongol said the panel is not limited to the roughly four days remaining from its original allocation because it has saved time elsewhere in the proceedings.
“They can extend depending on their need for presentation of witnesses,” he said.
If the prosecution also drops Article III, which alleges bribery, Tongol said the court could be about 27 days ahead of the original schedule.
After the prosecution finishes, it will formally offer its exhibits before the defense begins presenting its evidence.
The defense has requested 30 days to present its case, and Tongol said using the full period would bring the proceedings to around Dec. 16.
Asked directly whether that could mean a verdict by Dec. 16, Tongol said, “Correct.”
Tongol said, however, that the timetable must remain subordinate to due process.
“Laging mananaig na value na bibigyang importance ng korte ay accordance ng due process. Over and above ’yan sa bilis ng takbo ng proceedings,” he said.
[Translation: The most important value that our court will always bear in mind and prioritize is adherence to due process. That takes precedence over expediency or the speed of the proceedings. ]
The timetable remains subject to adjustments as the Senate balances the impeachment trial with its legislative work and other scheduled activities.
