The Senate has been asked to provide a work area in its building for use of the House prosecution panel in preparation for the impeachment trial of impeached Vice President Sara Duterte.
The House of Representatives formally made the request in a letter to Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero, dated March 5.
In his letter to the Senate chief, House Secretary General Reginald “Reggie” Velasco said the space will serve as a holding and work area for the House prosecutors and the House Secretariat Support Group (SSG) for the duration of the impeachment trial.
“On behalf of the House of Representatives Public Prosecution Panel, may I humbly request the assignment of a room in the Senate that will be utilized as a work and holding area for the Public Prosecutors and the House of Representatives Secretariat Support Group (SSG) for the duration of the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Z. Duterte,” Velasco said in the letter.
The House secretary further requested an ocular inspection of the designated room to ensure it meets the needs of the prosecution team.
“We request that we be allowed to conduct an ocular inspection on March 11, 2025, of the room to be assigned to determine how it will be set up to provide a comfortable and convenient working environment for the Public Prosecutors and the SSG,” he said.
The Senate formally received the letter on March 6.
The request came after House Speaker Martin G. Romualdez acknowledged receipt of Escudero’s letter dated February 24 affirming the Senate’s ongoing preparation for the impeachment trial.
“In line with established procedures, I have forwarded your letter to the House prosecution panel for their appropriate comment and action,” Romualdez said in a separate a letter to the Senate chief dated March 3.
Romualdez assured the Senate that the House is committed to ensuring that the proceedings are conducted fairly and in accordance with the Constitution.
“The House of Representatives trusts that the proceedings will be conducted with fairness, impartiality, and strict adherence to the provisions of the Constitution,” Romualdez said.
The House Speaker also cited the importance of maintaining close coordination between both chambers of Congress to ensure a smooth and transparent impeachment process.
“We appreciate your commitment to ensuring an orderly and transparent process and will remain in coordination as we fulfill our respective mandates,” Romualdez said.
Escudero earlier said the Senate will convene into an impeachment court when Congress resumes sessions on June 2.