The pre-trial conference for the impeachment case against Vice President Sara Duterte is expected to conclude on June 22 or June 23, according to House prosecutor Chel Diokno.

The pre-trial process, which formally began on June 18, involves both the prosecution and defense panels marking and organizing their documentary evidence before the Senate impeachment court formally starts trial proceedings on July 6.Diokno explained that the evidence-marking process is time-consuming because both sides must review and identify their respective exhibits.Despite this, he emphasized that the schedule for the impeachment trial remains unchanged.

Duterte faces allegations that include culpable violation of the Constitution, graft and corruption, betrayal of public trust, bribery, and other high crimes.

House prosecutors and Duterte’s legal team have reported disagreements during the pre-trial discussions, but both sides described the exchanges as normal for legal proceedings and said there was no significant tension.

House lead prosecutor Gerville Luistro and other members of the prosecution panel expressed concern that some defense actions may be intended to slow down the proceedings.However, they maintained that the impeachment calendar remains on track.

Discussions regarding the four articles of impeachment are expected to continue because of the large volume of evidence, particularly those related to alleged unexplained wealth and confidential funds.

The prosecution also stated that Duterte’s personal appearance is preferred when the impeachment court begins, but her absence would not stop the proceedings.Under Senate rules, failure to appear would simply result in a not guilty plea being entered on her behalf.A pre-trial order is scheduled for June 30, with both parties allowed to submit comments before the trial proper begins on July 6.