Manila: Senate President Francis Escudero has ordered the creation of an administrative support group to assist the chamber as it prepares to convene as an impeachment court for the trial of Vice President Sara Duterte.

According to Philippines News Agency, Escudero announced in a news release Thursday that he has signed Special Order No. 2025-015 mandating the establishment of a structured support system to ensure the smooth and efficient operation of the impeachment proceedings.

“This Special Order is vital to ensure that the Senate, in its role as an Impeachment Court, operates smoothly and efficiently. We are committed to upholding the highest standards of justice and due process throughout the proceedings,” Escudero stated.

Under SO 2025-015, the Secretary of the Senate has been designated as the Clerk of the Senate sitting as an impeachment court, responsible for overseeing administrative and procedural matters in accordance with the Rules of Procedure on Impeachment Trials. The Secretary is also authorized to issue administrative orders, directives, and guidelines as needed.

The Senate Secretariat, composed of key offices and personnel, will provide legal, technical, administrative, and security support to the Clerk of Court. The primary offices involved include the Office of the Senate Legal Counsel, responsible for drafting subpoenas, writs, summons, orders, and legal instruments, as well as preparing legal memoranda and maintaining custody of exhibits submitted before the Impeachment Court. Additionally, the Office of the Deputy Secretary for Legislation will handle transcripts and journals of trial proceedings, manage official documents, and draft Impeachment Court resolutions. The Office of the Sergeant-at-Arms will maintain security and order, serve legal documents, and ensure decorum in the chamber during the trial.