House establishes 134-person Impeachment Secretariat for VP Duterte's trial

The House of Representatives has established a 134-person Impeachment Secretariat to assist public prosecutors in the upcoming Senate trial of Vice President Sara Duterte.

House Secretary General Reginald Velasco issued Memorandum Order 19-1006 on Friday, outlining the secretariat's role in providing logistical, research, documentation services, and security for the prosecution team during the trial.

The Impeachment Secretariat includes personnel from key House departments such as the Office of the Secretary General, Office of the Sergeant-at-Arms, Legislative Operations Department, Legal Affairs Department, and other relevant units.

Their responsibilities cover plenary support, legal research, records management, stenographic transcription, information technology, security, and administrative coordination to ensure a smooth trial process.

Velasco emphasized that personnel assigned to the secretariat will adhere to strict House rules and ethical guidelines, maintaining neutrality and professionalism in fulfilling their mandate.