VP Sara Duterte's defense team ready for impeachment trial

The defense team of Vice President Sara Duterte stated on Monday they are prepared to face any charges if the Senate proceeds with her impeachment trial, despite questioning 'serious constitutional infirmities' in the complaints.

Duterte's lawyers emphasized that the impeachment process should not be weaponized against political opponents and stressed their readiness to expose the baselessness of accusations.

The House of Representatives impeached Vice President Duterte on February 5, accusing her of betrayal of public trust, culpable violation of the constitution, graft and corruption, and other high crimes.

Senate President Francis Escudero initially scheduled the presentation of Articles of Impeachment for June 2 but moved it to June 11 to prioritize legislative agenda items before the end of the 19th Congress.

Former Justice Adolfo Azcuna has clarified that if proceedings start in the 19th Congress, the 20th Congress can continue tackling Duterte's impeachment.