MANILA, Philippines — Vice President Sara Duterte will attend her impeachment trial before the Senate sitting as an impeachment court when proceedings begin on July 6, according to her lead defense counsel.
In an interview on Monday, lawyer Michael Poe confirmed that the vice president would appear in person before the impeachment court if necessary. This clarification contradicts earlier reports that suggested she would not attend the proceedings and would only be represented by her legal team.
Poa said Duterte is prepared to participate in the trial as required under the impeachment process.
Under the Senate rules, the vice president is required to appear before the impeachment court to enter a plea. If she chooses not to attend, the court will enter a plea of "not guilty" on her behalf.
The vice president is represented by a 16-member legal panel from the Fortun Narvasa & Salazar law firm.
