Chiz Escudero to Lead Sara Duterte Impeachment Trial

Jul 6, 2026

70 min

Jul 6, 2026 12:32

Philippines: What Escudero can — and cannot — do as presiding officer in Sara Duterte impeachment trial

## Escudero Elected as Presiding Officer

Senator Chiz Escudero has been chosen to preside over the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte in the Philippine Senate. He was elected with 12 votes, following a nomination by Senator Ping Lacson. This decision came despite objections from Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, who argued that the Senate president should lead the proceedings.

## Amended Senate Rules

The Senate, under President Win Gatchalian, amended its impeachment rules in June to allow the election of a presiding officer other than the Senate president. This change was unanimously approved and published as required by law.

## Charges Against Duterte

Vice President Sara Duterte faces charges including misuse of ₱612.5 million in confidential funds, unexplained wealth, bribery, and threats against President Marcos and the First Lady. This marks the first impeachment trial of a sitting Vice President in the Philippines.

## Role of the Presiding Officer

The presiding officer in an impeachment trial has a procedural role, managing the proceedings but not determining guilt or innocence. Escudero will oversee the trial, rule on evidence and procedure, and maintain order, but the Senate as a whole will make final decisions.

## Senate's Authority

The Senate retains ultimate authority in impeachment trials. It can overrule the presiding officer's decisions through a vote. This structure ensures that the Senate, not the presiding officer, holds the power to convict or acquit.

Read the full story at the source

What you need to know to get Emirates ID?

Leave your details and get a guide as a gift to avoid mistakes

Article contents