Manila, Feb. 27 -- The Senate has proposed to begin the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte on July 30, following a structured pre-trial process to ensure a fair and orderly proceeding, Senate President Francis Escudero announced in a press briefing on Thursday.

Escudero confirmed that official preparations would start on June 2, when the Senate resumes session wherein prosecutors will present the Articles of Impeachment and senators will approve revised trial rules.

By June 3, the Impeachment Court will convene and senator judges will take their oaths of office. The following day, June 4, the Senate is expected to issue a summons to Duterte.

Between June 14 and 24, the prosecution and defense will exchange legal pleadings...