The House prosecution panel is reviewing a set of procedural proposals that could shape the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, including court language rules, witness disclosure timelines, and access to key documentary evidence.
With the trial set to begin on July 6, lead prosecutor Batangas Rep. Gerville Luistro said the panel is finalizing its position and may submit a formal manifestation to the Senate impeachment court as early as June 24.
Among the proposals under consideration is the possible use of both Filipino and English as official languages during the proceedings. Prosecutors said the matter remains under discussion.
“We are discussing the adoption of Filipino and English as official languages to be used during the impeachment trial,” Luistro said.
The panel is also weighing a proposed rule requiring parties to disclose witnesses at least three days before they testify, aimed at ensuring adequate preparation for both sides.
“We are still considering the possible adoption of a rule on disclosure of witnesses at least three days before their presentation,” she added.
Another proposal involves allowing both public prosecutors and private counsel to participate in witness examination and presentation, including direct handling of individual testimonies. Coordination between the two groups is ongoing, Luistro said.
The House prosecution panel is composed of 11 public prosecutors, supported by private lawyers assisting in case buildup and trial preparation.
Prosecutors are also studying the possible opening of a Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) “box,” which contains documents gathered during earlier House committee investigations, subject to approval by the impeachment court.
Luistro stressed that discussions remain ongoing and no final decisions have been reached, noting that all proposals are still being refined before formal submission.
The impeachment trial is expected to proceed following the completion of pre-trial proceedings in the Senate impeachment court.