Senator Dela Rosa Confirms Draft Senate Resolution
Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa confirmed on June 4 that the draft Senate resolution proposing the dismissal of the impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte originated solely from his office. He emphasized that this move was entirely his initiative, without influence from any external sources, including the Vice President herself.
“Galing ‘yon sa office ko. You’ll understand everything—very self-explanatory. Mabasa niyo doon ano sinasabi ko, ano saloobin ko,” Dela Rosa said. He further clarified, “Ako itong initiative. Wala siyang pakialam dito,” referring to the Vice President.
The draft Senate resolution calls for the dismissal of the impeachment complaint against the country’s second highest official. It cites the Senate’s inaction for over 100 days since the Articles of Impeachment were transmitted, noting the Senate’s scheduled adjournment sine die on June 14. Dela Rosa urged the public and fellow lawmakers to read the draft resolution carefully, stressing that it clearly explains its purpose.
Legal Basis and Senate Input
The resolution, still in draft form, argues that the 20th Congress lacks jurisdiction to act on the impeachment complaint filed during the 19th Congress. “Based on my readings, legal opinions coming from legal experts, walang jurisdiction ang 20th Congress to act on the impeachment filed sa 19th Congress,” he stated.
While Dela Rosa did not personally report the draft to Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero, he acknowledged that some senators, including Sen. Imee Marcos and Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada, have reviewed it and provided input. Currently, there are at least three working drafts incorporating suggestions from various senators, with the aim of refining the final version.
Though he declined to disclose the exact number of senators supporting the draft, Dela Rosa noted growing backing. He said his main goal is to take a clear position on the issue, irrespective of whether the resolution is eventually adopted. The proposal also supports Senate Majority Leader Francis Tolentino’s stance that the impeachment complaint cannot carry over to the 20th Congress.
Senators React to Draft Senate Resolution
When asked if this move reflects a lack of confidence in the Vice President’s legal defense, Dela Rosa responded confidently, “Confident ako, sobrang confident ako.” However, he emphasized timing and practicality as key concerns, questioning whether the Senate realistically has time to conduct a trial before adjournment.
The draft remains unfiled, with final inputs from senators expected soon. Dela Rosa suggested he might formally file the measure as early as next week.
Several senators commented on the circulating draft resolution. Estrada confirmed seeing a printed copy but stressed it was shown informally, not filed or endorsed. He noted that only formally filed resolutions carry weight and highlighted that impeachment proceedings are constitutional duties requiring proper handling. Estrada deferred to legal experts regarding whether a Senate resolution could override that responsibility.
Senator Joel Villanueva said he only saw the draft through the Senate media group chat and has not reviewed it fully. He underscored the need to refrain from commenting until the case reaches the appropriate stage.
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, an ally of the Duterte bloc, said he neither received nor was asked to sign the resolution. He expressed a preference to focus on legislative work, mentioning his efforts on local hospital bills. “If there’s no evidence, let’s not drag this out,” Go said. He also stressed the importance of impartiality once the Senate convenes as an impeachment court, emphasizing fairness and evidence-based decisions.
Go acknowledged that the decision to proceed with the impeachment trial lies with Senate leadership and pledged to support lawful and procedural actions.
Senate Leadership’s Position
Senate President Escudero has stated no resolution has been formally filed or is pending, dismissing circulating copies as “mere scraps of paper.” The Senate is set to reconvene as an impeachment court on June 11, unless procedural moves delay or dismiss the trial.
For more news and updates on the draft Senate resolution, visit Filipinokami.com.
