
First Duterte impeachment trial begins as Philippines watches the Senate
Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment trial opens in Manila’s Senate with 21 of 24 lawmakers present. Duterte is not required to attend, and Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian pledges impartial justice as security outside the chamber is tight. The proceedings will be livestreamed nationwide, with watch parties and media coverage fueling public interest; the trial has a maximum duration of 92 days, and Duterte ally Rodante Marcoleta was arrested hours before the session, potentially affecting support in the Senate.













