MANILA, Philippines — Protesters from opposing groups started gathering outside the Senate in Pasay City on Monday as lawmakers began the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte.
One side near the Senate gates was occupied by supporters of Duterte and Sen. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, calling for the dismissal of the impeachment case and defending the vice president from accusations raised before the chamber.
On the opposite side, members of labor and progressive groups including Kilusang Mayo Uno, Gabriela, BIEN and other allied organizations demanded Duterte’s conviction and called for the arrest of dela Rosa.
Police personnel and traffic enforcers were deployed around the Senate complex to monitor the situation and manage crowds.
The Senate earlier convened as an impeachment court, with senators taking their oath ahead of the formal proceedings against the vice president.
