MANILA – The Senate has officially reserved the Tolentino Room for the prosecution panel in the upcoming impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, Senate Secretary Renato Bantug confirmed during logistical preparations on Tuesday (18 Mar 2025).
Bantug highlighted the need to balance the trial’s requirements with the Senate’s regular functions. “The Senate has very limited room space, and with the 20th Congress already in session by the time the trial begins, we must ensure committee hearings continue without disruption,” he told reporters after overseeing an ocular inspection of Senate premises with House Secretary General Reginald Velasco.
The Senate session hall, which holds 340 people in the galleries and 30 in the VIP box, will serve as the main venue for the impeachment hearings. Additional spaces, such as the Sotto and Quezon rooms, will also be utilized for trial-related proceedings.
However, the defense panel’s designated area has yet to be finalized, as discussions with their representatives are ongoing.
“We must ensure enough committee rooms remain available due to the Senate’s limited capacity,” Bantug added.
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