Online registration to watch the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte at the Philippine Senate will commence at 2 p.m. on July 5, 2026, allowing the general public to attend under controlled conditions.
The Philippine Senate has announced that members of the public interested in attending the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte can register online starting July 5, 2026, at 2 p.m. Senate Secretary Renato Bantug Jr. explained that attendance will be managed through the Office of the Senate Sergeant-at-Arms’ Visitor Management System to ensure the safety of senators, staff, media, and attendees.
A total of 151 seats in the Senate session hall will be divided with 45 seats allocated for the prosecution, 45 for the defense, and 61 for the general public. Interested individuals can register via a released link or QR code.
Heightened security measures were implemented since June 9 due to alleged security threats, with visitation policies temporarily suspended. The impeachment proceedings stem from charges filed against Vice President Duterte by the House of Representatives, citing allegations including culpable violations of the Constitution, graft, bribery, and betrayal of public trust.
As of the announcement, the Vice President’s defense team has not confirmed whether she will attend the trial sessions, although attendance is not mandatory under trial rules. The opening session is planned to be attended by both prosecution and defense legal teams and will be officially recorded. Senate officials assure that all preparations have been made to facilitate a smooth and secure hearing process.
Sources referenced:
- https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/993784/sara-duterte-impeachment-trial-visitors-senate/story/