The Senate Impeachment Court might issue a decision on the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte by October 2025, Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero said Tuesday.

In a press conference at the Senate, Escudero said the actual trial would commence once the 20th Congress opens and could take about three months to complete.

The final verdict may not come immediately, with Escudero predicting a conclusion by October 2025.

“The trial will begin — trial defined as the reception and admission of evidence. I think it will be in the 20th Congress, the earliest being July 29, when Congress resumes for the SoNA on July 28,” Escudero said.

He noted that pre-trial proceedings, such as the submission of documents and evidence, could help speed up the process.

“I believe the trial will not exceed three or two months. So by the time we recess in October 2025, this will be finished and ready for a vote,” he said.

He further explained that the actual trial would primarily focus on the cross-examination of witnesses.

He recalled that the legislative calendar was approved as early as July 2024, indicating that both chambers would adjourn this month for the election campaign.

Escudero emphasized that the trial could not commence unless the Senate convened a plenary session.