The Office of the Vice President (OVP) has asked the Senate to permit only its accredited caterer to prepare and serve food and beverages for Vice President Sara Duterte’s defense team, support staff, and witnesses during the impeachment trial, citing safety and security considerations.
In a letter dated July 7, 2026, addressed to Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian, Vice President Sara Duterte said the request stems from the “unique circumstances of the trial” and the need to ensure the welfare of individuals directly involved in the proceedings.
Under the proposal, all meals and beverages for the defense team, support staff, and witnesses would be served exclusively in their designated holding room throughout the trial.
The OVP also requested that the food be prepared, sourced, and served only by its accredited caterer, saying the arrangement would provide an added level of assurance regarding the safety and security of those participating in the impeachment proceedings.
In addition, the office asked the Senate to cover the reasonable costs of the catering services, including food and beverages, emphasizing that the request applies only for the duration of the impeachment trial.
In the letter, Duterte said the proposed measures are intended to safeguard the health and well-being of the defense team, support staff, and witnesses, allowing them to fully participate in the proceedings while helping ensure that the trial proceeds in an orderly and uninterrupted manner.
The vice president also expressed hope that the Senate would find the request reasonable and approve the proposed catering arrangement for the entire duration of the impeachment proceedings.
