Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian said Thursday that the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte has remained orderly and impartial after its first six days, citing the Senate's preparations and the cooperation of both the prosecution and defense panels.

Speaking in an interview on DZRH’s “Dos Por Dos,” Gatchalian said the Senate anticipated heightened attention to peace and order given that the proceedings involve a high-profile political figure.

“Ang personal assessment ko ay smooth at maayos at dahil ang nililitis dito ay isang mataas na political figure, may aspeto rin ng peace and order itong impeachment.”

He noted that preparations began early to ensure the safety and organization of the proceedings, adding that the first six days of the trial have proceeded without major issues.

“At the first 6 days makikita naman natin na orderly ang naging proceedings,” he said.

Gatchalian also expressed appreciation to both the prosecution and defense panels for their cooperation, which he said contributed to the steady pace of the trial.

Addressing criticism about a perceived divide between pro- and anti-administration lawmakers in the Senate, Gatchalian emphasized that senator-judges are bound by strict rules on impartiality.

“Very strict ang ating rules pagdating sa impartiality at sinasabi nga dapat maging impartial tayo walang kinikilingan,” he said.

He added that Senate rules prohibit members of the impeachment court from commenting on the merits of the case to avoid prejudgment.

“Tayo na mismo ang mag-regulate sa ating sarili na maging impartial tayo,” Gatchalian said.