The Office of the Vice President (OVP) has formally requested the Senate to allow only its accredited caterer to provide food and beverages for Vice President Sara Duterte’s defense team, support staff, and witnesses throughout the impeachment trial, citing safety and security concerns.
In a letter dated July 7, 2026, addressed to Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian, Vice President Sara Duterte said the request is necessary due to the “unique circumstances of the trial” and the need to protect everyone directly involved in the proceedings.
The OVP proposed that all food and beverages for the defense team, support staff, and witnesses be served exclusively in their designated holding room.
It also requested that the meals be sourced, prepared, and served solely by the OVP’s accredited caterer to provide “the necessary level of assurance” regarding the safety and security of those participating in the trial.
The office further asked the Senate to shoulder the reasonable costs of the food, beverages, and catering services, noting that the arrangements would be required only for the duration of the impeachment proceedings.
“The requested measures are necessary to safeguard the safety and well-being of the defense team, support staff, and witnesses, ensure their full and effective participation, and support the orderly and uninterrupted conduct of the proceedings,” Vice President Duterte said in the letter.
The vice president expressed hope that the Senate would recognize the necessity of the proposed arrangements and approve their implementation for the entire duration of the trial.
