Photo credit: Renee Co

House trial spokesperson Renee Co on Monday said the prosecution panel is considering asking the Senate impeachment court to reserve a seat for Vice President Sara Duterte during her impeachment trial, saying the move would visibly demonstrate that she is welcome to personally attend and defend herself throughout the proceedings.

According to Co, setting aside a seat for the Vice President would send a clear message that the impeachment court remains open to her participation should she decide to appear.

"There should be a seat reserved for the Vice President. If she chooses to attend, listen to the proceedings, and answer the allegations against her, it is only proper that she has a designated place in the impeachment court," Co said.

She noted that a similar arrangement had already been observed during the House Committee on Justice hearings, where a seat was reserved for Duterte while lead prosecutor Batangas Rep. Gerville "Jinky Bitrics" Luistro repeatedly emphasized that the committee remained open to hearing her side.

Co said the same principle could be applied during the Senate trial to reinforce that the constitutional process gives both parties a full and fair opportunity to present their case.

"This is not meant to pressure or embarrass anyone. The message is simple—the process is open, every side will be heard, and the impeachment court is prepared to listen," she explained.

The prosecution panel continues to push for the impeachment trial to begin as scheduled on July 6, when lawmakers are expected to present evidence supporting the Articles of Impeachment filed against Duterte.

"For us, what matters is that the trial begins and the public is given the opportunity to hear the evidence. If the Vice President attends, there will be a place for her. If she does not, the constitutional process will still move forward," Co said.

While acknowledging that Duterte may choose to be represented by legal counsel, Co said a personal appearance would carry greater public significance given the constitutional nature of the proceedings and the high office involved.

"She has lawyers to represent her, but there is a different message when a public official personally faces the people. In an impeachment trial, the public also looks at whether an official is willing to answer questions of accountability," she added.

Co also said reserving a seat could help address claims that Duterte is being denied due process by making it clear that she has been notified, has legal representation, and has every opportunity to participate in the proceedings.

"It is a clear demonstration that she is being given every chance to defend herself," Co said.

She stressed that the prosecution's focus remains on presenting evidence, ensuring due process, and upholding public accountability—not on turning Duterte's attendance or absence into a political spectacle.

"Our priority is to present the evidence, follow the constitutional process, and show the public that accountability is pursued through a fair, orderly, and transparent trial," Co said.