The House prosecution panel said Monday it is moving to complete the pre-trial phase of the impeachment case, with the marking of exhibits underway for key articles, and reaffirmed that the trial will begin on July 6 as scheduled by the Senate.

Batangas Rep. Gerville Luistro, speaking at a press conference, said the prosecution is currently marking evidence related to Article 1, which involves the use of confidential funds, and Article 2, which concerns alleged unexplained wealth.

Luistro said the prosecution has consistently pushed to expedite the pre-trial process and aims to finish the marking of exhibits within the day, although she acknowledged logistical challenges.

“It has always been the position of the prosecution to expedite the pre-trial conference,” Luistro said. “But of course there are challenges and limitations and we acknowledge that.”

Following the completion of exhibit marking by both the prosecution and defense, Luistro said the panel expects the impeachment court to issue a pre-trial order outlining the framework of the proceedings.

The pre-trial order will include agreed stipulations of facts, the list of witnesses, marked exhibits, and the schedule of trial dates. It will also reflect submissions from both parties, including the prosecution’s manifestation on the order of presentation for the four articles of impeachment.

Luistro emphasized that the pre-trial order is binding on all parties, including the impeachment court, and will govern how the trial proceeds.

“Whatever is contained there must be followed by all parties as we proceed to trial of the articles of impeachment,” she said.

She added that both sides will have the opportunity to file comments on the pre-trial order once it is issued.

Despite ongoing pre-trial activities, Luistro said there is certainty on the timeline for the proceedings.

“It is certain that it will commence on July 6 as previously announced by the Senate,” she said.