The House of Representatives has formed a secretariat to provide technical and administrative support to its prosecution panel in the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte. 

House Secretary General Reginald Velasco has issued a six-page memorandum order naming the 134 personnel, who form part of the secretariat. They include personnel from key House departments, including the Office of the Secretary General, Office of the Sergeant-at-Arms, Legislative Operations Department, Legal Affairs Department, and other relevant units.

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The secretariat’s functions will include plenary support, legal research, records management, stenographic transcription, information technology, security, and administrative coordination. 

“The House Secretariat plays a vital role in ensuring the orderly conduct of legislative proceedings, including impeachment trials. This directive ensures that the prosecution team has access to essential logistical, research, and documentation support to facilitate a smooth and efficient trial process,” Velasco said in a statement. 

“As the impeachment process moves forward, the Impeachment Secretariat will continue to provide the necessary support to uphold the integrity of the proceedings,” he added.

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Velasco said the assigned personnel will have to adhere to House rules and ethical guidelines to ensure transparency and professionalism throughout the process.

“This is a routine function aligned with our constitutional duty. The House Secretariat remains neutral and professional in fulfilling its mandate,” he said.