Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo “Ping” Lacson said the Senate is financially prepared to conduct a possible impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, noting that existing funds remain sufficient and largely unused.
Lacson, who also chairs the Committee on Accounts, said the chamber has a budget allocation under the 2025 General Appropriations Act for impeachment-related expenses.
He said that of the P27 million earmarked for such proceedings, only about P500,000 was spent when earlier impeachment articles were initially transmitted to the Senate last year.
“Since the fund is good for two years under continuing appropriations, the Senate is financially able and ready to conduct the trial if and when the Articles of Impeachment are transmitted,” Lacson said.
He added that the availability of continuing funds ensures the Senate will not face logistical or budgetary delays once the House of Representatives transmits the case.
Lacson said preparations have been underway, although no formal trial has begun.
He earlier noted that senators, including Senate President Vicente Sotto III, have been making contingency plans in anticipation of possible proceedings this year.
He added that, if the trial proceeds, senators will base their judgment solely on the evidence presented.