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Sara Duterte's Criminal Case Not Affecting Impeachment Trial, Says Gatchalian

Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian states that Vice President Sara Duterte's criminal case will not influence her impeachment trial.

6 September 2026Tagblick Newsdesk

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Archive photo: Sara Duterte's Criminal Case Not Affecting Impeachment Trial, Says Gatchalian — Archive photoPhoto: George Parilla · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.0

Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian affirmed that the ongoing impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte at the Senate Impeachment Court is unaffected by her criminal case. The case, which involves grave threats, is currently being handled by the Quezon City Regional Trial Court (RTC). Gatchalian clarified that the two proceedings are distinct and operate independently.

The impeachment trial has been progressing for ten weeks, during which the House prosecution panel is set to present evidence regarding confidential funds associated with Duterte. On Day 22 of the trial, Philippine Statistics Authority Assistant National Statistician Marissa Grande is scheduled to testify.

Despite facing both impeachment and criminal charges, Impeachment spokesperson Reginald Tongol stated that the principle of double jeopardy does not apply to Duterte's situation. This principle prohibits an individual from being tried twice for the same offense.

Reports noted that a recent arrest warrant was issued against Duterte, but Gatchalian indicated that this development would have no bearing on the Senate impeachment process. He reiterated that the ongoing criminal case and impeachment trial are separate matters.

As the proceedings continue, various aspects of Duterte's actions and the handling of her confidential funds remain under scrutiny in the Senate. The outcomes of both the criminal case and impeachment trial will unfold as scheduled.

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