The pre-trial process in the impeachment case against Vice President Sara Duterte will define the scope of evidence, witnesses, and sequence of presentation, with the resulting order expected to serve as the guiding framework for the Senate trial, according to a House prosecutor.
Manila Rep. Joel Chua said the pre-trial conference will be a critical stage where both sides identify agreed facts, mark evidence, and determine how the case will proceed once trial begins.
He explained that stipulations of fact will help narrow down issues that no longer require proof, allowing the impeachment court to focus on contested matters.
“Ang pre-trial conference, dito pinag-uusapan ang stipulation of facts,” the Manila solon said during the launch of a citizen watchdog campaign on the impeachment proceedings in Quezon City.
He said the conference will also determine which pieces of evidence will be formally marked and which witnesses will testify under each article of impeachment.
“Sa pre-trial conference, pinag-uusapan kung ano ang mga ebidensya na mamamarkahan,” he said, adding that witness lists and presentation order will also be finalized.
He described the resulting pre-trial order as the framework that will guide the Senate impeachment court throughout the proceedings.
“Ang pre-trial order ito ang magiging road map ng hearing,” he said.
The lawmaker also emphasized the importance of senator-judges being physically present during the trial so they can directly observe witness demeanor during testimony.
He said such observation is essential in assessing credibility and determining whether testimony is truthful.
The House prosecution panel, he added, is seeking a fair and transparent trial process that allows evidence to be properly presented before the court and the public.
Chua said this would enable senator-judges to make informed decisions based on the full presentation of facts.