The pre-trial conference focused on the completion of the marking of documents and evidence by both parties, while discussions on stipulations or agreed facts and evidence were also expected to be resolved.

The pre-trial serves as the initial stage of the impeachment process, allowing both sides to define the issues and evidence that will be presented before the senator-judges during the trial proper.

The Senate, sitting as an impeachment court, is scheduled to begin the trial on July 6 unless changes are made during the pre-trial proceedings.

Senate Secretary Renato Bantug Jr. said the conference was being conducted in accordance with the impeachment calendar as both parties work to determine the scope of the proceedings.

The House prosecution panel was led by Batangas Rep. Gerville "Jinky" Luistro.

Luistro told DZRH News in an interview, during the first pre-trial conference held on June 18, Duterte’s camp denied more allegations than it admitted in response to the articles of impeachment.

Under the pre-trial process, the prosecution and defense are expected to agree on uncontested facts and evidence to streamline the trial.

Defense lawyer and spokesperson Michael Poa earlier expressed hope that the pre-trial conference could be completed by Monday.

Duterte did not attend the first day of the pre-trial proceedings.

Meanwhile, House trial spokesperson and Assistant Minority Leader Renee Co said the prosecution team would still await the Vice President’s appearance during the second day of the conference.

Although Duterte’s attendance is not currently required, Co said her presence would demonstrate readiness to address the allegations against her before the proper forum.

Co noted that Duterte’s absence from congressional proceedings was not new, citing her previous non-attendance during budget deliberations involving the Office of the Vice President and during House impeachment proceedings.

She added that the case involves not only legal issues but also accountability to the public.

The House prosecution team also reiterated its readiness for the impeachment trial despite earlier remarks from Duterte’s camp suggesting the proceedings could become a “bloodbath.” Co dismissed the statement, saying Duterte’s continued absence from proceedings could make it appear more like a “bubble bath.”

Duterte is facing following impeachment complaints on several grounds:

• Culpable violation of the Constitution, graft and corruption, and betrayal of public trust - Relating to the alleged misuse, misappropriation, and irregular disbursement of confidential funds, ₱500 million under the Office of the Vice President (OVP) and ₱112.5 million under the Department of Education (DepEd).
• Culpable violation of the Constitution and betrayal of public trust - Alleged accumulation of unexplained wealth disproportionate to lawful income and earnings during public service.
• Bribery, graft and corruption, culpable violation of the Constitution, and betrayal of public trust - Alleged giving of monetary gifts or payments to DepEd officials to influence or bypass procurement and related laws.
• Culpable violation of the Constitution, high crimes, and betrayal of public trust - Alleged involvement in threats against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the First Lady, and the former House Speaker, as well as accusations of inciting sedition.

Duterte has repeatedly denied wrongdoing and has challenged the validity of the impeachment complaint filed against her.

The Senate impeachment court is expected to continue pre-trial proceedings before the start of the trial next month.