The Philippines on Monday witnessed the commencement of the historic impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, amid heightened security and fears of nationwide protests as political tensions continue to deepen.

The proceedings, which opened in the Senate, mark the first time in the country’s history that a sitting vice president has faced an impeachment trial.

Security was significantly reinforced around the Senate complex, with thousands of police officers deployed to prevent possible unrest following weeks of political demonstrations, arrests and reports of a shooting incident linked to the escalating political climate.

Duterte is facing allegations of corruption as well as accusations that she publicly threatened to have President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. assassinated. She has denied all the allegations, insisting that the impeachment case is politically motivated and intended to undermine her.

The vice president was absent when the trial commenced.

Under Philippine law, a two-thirds majority of senators is required to convict Duterte. A guilty verdict would result in her removal from office and disqualify her from seeking the presidency in the 2028 general election.

The impeachment trial marks a new chapter in the prolonged political rivalry between Duterte and President Marcos Jr., shifting their battle from the political arena to the Senate, where the outcome is expected to shape the country’s political landscape ahead of the next presidential election.