Senate impeachment court Presiding Officer Francis "Chiz" Escudero said lawyers should refrain from making public statements during the trial of Vice President Sara Duterte.
The ruling aims to protect the integrity of the proceedings by enforcing the sub judice rule. By limiting public commentary, the court seeks to prevent outside influence or sanctions that could jeopardize the fairness of the trial.
The warning occurred on July 29, 2026 [3]. Reports on the timing of the ruling varied, with one source identifying the date as Day 19 [1] and another as Day 20 [2] of the trial.
Escudero ruled that the prosecution must complete the presentation of its evidence before the defense is permitted to present its case. This procedural order establishes a strict sequence for the delivery of testimony, and documentation in Manila.
The presiding officer said the restriction on public comments is necessary to maintain the legal standards of the Senate impeachment court. The measure applies to legal teams on both sides of the case.
Vice President Duterte remains the central figure of the proceedings as the court navigates the evidence phase. The Senate continues to serve as the venue for the trial, balancing the public interest in the outcome with the legal requirements of a formal impeachment process.
“Escudero said lawyers should refrain from making public statements during the trial of Vice President Sara Duterte.”
The enforcement of the sub judice rule suggests the court is concerned that the high-profile nature of the trial is spilling into the public sphere, potentially biasing the proceedings. By strictly sequencing the evidence phase, the Senate is attempting to maintain a traditional judicial structure despite the political volatility surrounding the Vice President's impeachment.
