Drilon to headline Rappler+ town hall on governance, Sara Duterte impeachment

MANILA, Philippines – In recent months, Filipinos have witnessed a series of unsual events unfold inside the Senate, raising fresh questions about institutional credibility just as the country prepares for one of its most consequential political exercises: the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte.

Why did recent tensions within the Senate erupt? How might these conflicts affect the impeachment proceedings? What do shifting political alliances inside the chamber mean for the country’s democratic institutions? And what should Filipinos expect in the months ahead?

These questions will be explored in Beyond the Trial with Frank Drilon, an exclusive Rappler+ town hall happening on July 17, from 3 pm to 5 pm at the Rappler Civic Hub in Pasig City.

The event will feature a rare, in-person conversation with former Senate president Frank Drilon, one of the country’s most experienced legislators and respected statesmen. More than simply hearing from Drilon, attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions, share their views, and participate in an intimate discussion alongside fellow members, advocates, professionals, and civic leaders. 

A distinguished legislative career

Drilon is among the Philippines’ most experienced legal and political figures, having served in public office for more than four decades.

A four-time Senate president, Drilon is one of the country’s longest-serving legislative leaders. He previously served as labor secretary under then-president Corazon Aquino and later as justice secretary under then-president Fidel Ramos.

Drilon also possesses firsthand experience in two of the most significant impeachment proceedings in modern Philippine history. He was Senate president during the impeachment trial of then-president Joseph Estrada and became a central figure during the political crisis surrounding the “second envelope” controversy, which ultimately led to EDSA II.

Years later, Drilon served as a senator-judge during the impeachment trial of then-chief justice Renato Corona, where he played an active and highly visible role in the legal debates that shaped the proceedings.

Understanding the Sara Duterte impeachment

Drilon’s long career gives him a unique institutional and historical perspective that few public figures possess.

As the Senate prepares for the impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte, Drilon is particularly well-positioned to help Filipinos understand the constitutional requirements of impeachment, the dynamics inside the chamber, and the broader political consequences when public confidence in institutions is tested.

On July 17, Drilon will join Rappler+ members at the Rappler Civic Hub for a rare and timely conversation on impeachment, Senate turmoil, and the future of Philippine democracy.

Joining him in conversation will be Rappler political reporter Dwight de Leon.

This is an opportunity not only to hear from one of the country’s foremost statesmen, but to take part in the conversation yourself.

You’ll also hear from:

• Pia Ranada, on Rappler community updates, recent coverage, and ways members continue to support impactful journalism
• BrandRap, The Nerve, and MovePH, with opportunities for networking and future partnerships

Food and drinks will be served.

This gathering is exclusive to Rappler+ members, and we would love to have you in the room.

Already a member? Reserve your slot by emailing [email protected].

Not yet a member? Become part of the Rappler+ community today at rappler.com/plus and gain access to gatherings like this, where conversations turn into action. Rappler+ town halls happen every quarter.

This event will be held in a hybrid format. International members and members based outside Metro Manila may register to participate virtually, and will receive a Zoom link to join and watch the event live. – Rappler.com