Senate to Convene as Impeachment Court for VP Duterte on May 18

Newly elected Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano has confirmed that the Philippine Senate will convene as an impeachment court on May 18, 2026, to try Vice President Sara Duterte. This announcement aims to dispel fears that recent political instability, including a leadership change and a gunfire incident at the Senate, would derail the proceedings. Cayetano emphasized strict adherence to constitutional mandates, stating there would be no delays in referring the articles of impeachment transmitted by the House of Representatives. The Vice President faces charges related to alleged misuse of public funds, bribery, unexplained wealth, and threats against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. The situation remains tense due to Cayetano’s slim 13-person majority and the controversial escape of Senator Bato dela Rosa from Senate custody following a shooting incident. Unlike previous attempts that were stalled by procedural debates, Cayetano asserted unanimous support within his bloc for proceeding with the trial. The Senate is now tasked with issuing writs of summons and setting the schedule for the consideration of the articles, marking a critical step in the high-stakes political confrontation between the legislative branch and the executive office.