A House of Representatives spokesperson has said that the “birthday gift” the chamber can offer Vice President Sara Duterte is the guarantee of due process as she faces an ongoing impeachment process.Kabataan Party-list Rep.

Renee Co, speaking in her capacity as House trial spokesperson, emphasized that Duterte should be given the opportunity to properly respond to the allegations against her and present her defence in accordance with legal procedures.

Co made the remarks as Duterte marked her 48th birthday and as she approaches a key deadline to respond to the writ of summons related to her impeachment case.

According to reports, Duterte has until June 1 to submit her answer, with confirmation from her office that the impeachment documents have been received but not yet responded to.

Under the Rules of Procedure on Impeachment Trial, she is given a non-extendible 10-day period from receipt to file her pleadings, while the prosecution may file a reply within five days after receiving her answer.Co stressed that this may be Duterte’s last opportunity to formally present her defence before the Senate impeachment trial proceeds.

The Senate is expected to begin the impeachment trial on July 6, with sessions scheduled in the afternoon from Monday to Wednesday, following morning legislative sessions.The allegations against Duterte include alleged misuse of 612.5 million pesos in confidential funds, alleged bribery, alleged threats against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.and his family, and unexplained wealth accumulation.

Co reiterated that the public is waiting for Duterte’s response and that accountability through due process remains essential in addressing the accusations raised in the impeachment complaint.The statement underscores growing political tension as the case moves toward trial proceedings in the Senate.