House prosecution panel adviser Robert Ace Barbers stated that the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte could be shortened if the evidence presented is deemed sufficient.

He emphasized that the prosecution may opt to expedite proceedings if they believe their case is already established, with key evidence and witnesses already laid out in scheduled articles.

Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian also urged the prosecution to shorten the trial and reduce the number of witnesses, suggesting that corroborative testimonies could be condensed to speed up the process.

The trial is set to begin on July 6, with initial sessions from Monday to Wednesday, followed by sessions from Tuesdays to Thursdays after the State of the Nation Address on July 27.

Duterte's impeachment case, filed in May over allegations of constitutional violations, graft, and corruption, faces potential dismissal as her defense team has yet to confirm her attendance.

Barbers highlighted the importance of Duterte's presence to show respect for the rule of law, while Senate Secretary Renato Bantug noted her attendance is not mandatory.The trial's outcome hinges on the sufficiency of evidence and the effectiveness of the prosecution's arguments.