Senators Differ on Impeachment Court Convening
Some senators are divided over the plan to convene the impeachment court on August 4 for Vice President Sara Duterte’s trial, which has been delayed for five months. The Senate is gearing up to hold the trial, but opinions vary on when it should begin.
According to sources, between four and six senators have informally discussed with Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero the possibility of starting the trial on August 4. This would allow the chamber time to settle leadership roles, committee chairmanships, and other procedural matters. Senator Joel Villanueva shared these updates on Wednesday.
Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan, however, expressed his intent to seek clarification on the proposed date. In a statement, he emphasized the constitutional mandate for the trial to proceed without delay. “The earliest possible time we can convene, the better, because the Constitution is quite clear that upon receipt of the complaint, trial by the Senate shall forthwith proceed,” he said in a mix of Filipino and English.
Calls for Plenary Discussion and Clear Justification
Senator Panfilo “Ping” Lacson also weighed in, urging the Senate to discuss and vote on the matter during a plenary session. He stressed the importance of explaining their votes, regardless of the majority’s decision. “As a senator-judge, I want to hear or participate in the discussion of any major issue involved in the impeachment process before making a decision, because it is a constitutional duty,” Lacson said.
Meanwhile, Senator Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino IV announced that he has consulted legal experts and even rehearsed wearing his senator-judge robe in preparation for the trial. In a prepared statement in Filipino, he said, “We are ready to fulfill our duty and responsibility as senator-judges. We will carefully examine the evidence, be discerning, and remain open-minded to the process. Follow the Constitution. The trial will proceed on August 4.”
Background on the Impeachment Case
Vice President Sara Duterte faces charges including culpable violation of the Constitution, bribery, graft and corruption, betrayal of public trust, and other serious offenses. The accusations focus on her alleged misuse of P612.5 million in confidential funds. The House of Representatives impeached her last February.
The Senate first convened as an impeachment court on June 10 but sent back the articles of impeachment to the House. Senators sought certification that the complaint did not breach the Constitution’s “one-year bar” rule and that the 20th Congress would continue the process.
The upcoming session of the 20th Congress starts on July 28, coinciding with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s fourth State of the Nation Address.
For more news and updates on Senate impeachment court, visit Filipinokami.com.
