The Senate impeachment court has announced changes to the schedule of Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment trial, with adjustments made to accommodate major government activities and legislative preparations.

Presiding officer Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero said there will be no trial proceedings on July 27 because of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA).The trial will also be suspended on July 28 to allow minority senators to prepare and deliver their response, known as the “Kontra-SONA.” Escudero said senator-judges agreed that proceedings will resume on Wednesday, July 29, at 10 a.m.Starting in August, the impeachment trial will be conducted every Monday to Wednesday from 10 a.m.to 3 p.m., while Senate legislative sessions will follow at 4 p.m.on the same days.The impeachment court is set to continue hearing testimony from National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Melvin Matibag.

His testimony is focused on Article IV of the Articles of Impeachment, which involves allegations regarding an alleged threat and assassination plot against President Marcos, First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and former Speaker Martin Romualdez.The court may begin discussions on Article I next week, which concerns allegations involving Duterte’s reported misuse of P612.5 million in confidential funds.

Escudero also temporarily recalled subpoenas issued to Landbank representatives Violeta Constantino and Nenita Camposano until their testimony is needed.The court said new subpoenas will be issued once their appearance becomes necessary.