Photo credit: Senate PH

The Senate has stepped up security and crowd-control measures as it prepares for the opening of the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, with officials also bracing for possible protests outside the Senate.

Speaking to reporters after Monday's flag-raising ceremony, Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian said the chamber has made preparations for different scenarios to ensure that the proceedings remain peaceful and orderly.

According to Gatchalian, the Senate coordinated with the Philippine National Police (PNP) to help manage any demonstration that may take place around the Senate complex.

He also confirmed that, under Senate rules, he will serve as the presiding officer of the impeachment court. However, he declined to comment on pending issues related to the case, saying these should be decided by the impeachment court itself.

Gatchalian likewise welcomed the turnout during the all-senator caucus held before the trial, noting that senators, including Loren Legarda and Robin Padilla, attended the meeting. He said their presence reflected their willingness to take part in the proceedings.

The Senate President also said he has not received any indication that members of the minority bloc intend to skip or boycott the impeachment trial.

He described the caucus as productive, saying senators exchanged ideas and recommendations to help ensure the smooth and orderly conduct of the impeachment process.

Despite the high-profile proceedings, Gatchalian stressed that the Senate will continue tackling other pressing legislative priorities, including discussions on the national budget, as lawmakers also seek to address the country's economic challenges.