MANILA – The House of Representatives has set up an Impeachment Secretariat to offer technical and administrative support to the prosecutors in the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte.
House Secretary General Reginald Velasco issued Memorandum Order 19-1006 to establish the Secretariat, aimed at ensuring a smooth and efficient trial process.
“The House Secretariat plays a vital role in maintaining order during legislative proceedings, including impeachment trials. This directive ensures the prosecution has access to essential logistical, research, and documentation support for an effective trial,” Velasco said.
The Secretariat will include personnel from various House departments, such as the Office of the Secretary General, Office of the Sergeant-at-Arms, Legislative Operations Department, and Legal Affairs Department. Their duties will cover plenary support, legal research, records management, stenographic transcription, IT services, security, and administrative coordination.
Velasco emphasized that personnel would adhere to strict House rules and ethical standards. “This is a routine function aligned with our constitutional duty. The House Secretariat remains neutral and professional,” he added.
To ensure accountability, personnel will log their attendance through the HousePass monitoring system, with schedules managed by their respective offices.
“As the impeachment progresses, the Impeachment Secretariat will continue to provide support to uphold the integrity of the proceedings,” Velasco concluded.
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