VP Sara Duterte Questions Impeachment Trial Crossover
Vice President Sara Duterte, while insisting she wants her impeachment trial to move forward, raised concerns about the constitutionality of her impeachment trial crossing into the 20th Congress. She emphasized that her legal team is actively questioning this transition, especially considering the change in the House of Representatives’ composition.
During an interview in The Hague, Netherlands, where she visited former President Rodrigo Duterte in detention, she stated, “Yan, kinukuwestiyon din namin ‘yung pag-crossover ng 19th to the 20th Congress, dahil ang composition ng House of (Representatives).” However, she declined to elaborate further, saying, “Yung lawyers ko nalang magsalita, Ma’am, kasi papagalitan na naman ako nila.” Her case is currently handled by the Fortun-Narvasa-Salazar Law Offices.
Delay in Impeachment Trial Sparks Criticism
The House of Representatives impeached Vice President Duterte on February 5, and the Articles of Impeachment were transmitted to the Senate the same day. Yet, the Senate has not begun the trial before its recess. Senate President Francis Escudero declined to call a special session, initially setting the trial to start on June 2, then postponing it to June 11, prioritizing the legislative agenda instead.
This delay has drawn sharp criticism from congressional colleagues and legal experts alike. They argue it violates the Philippine Constitution, which prioritizes impeachment proceedings over other legislative matters. Some reports suggest Escudero might be shielding the Vice President to maintain his position within the Duterte bloc in the Senate. Meanwhile, other legislators have openly condemned what they call cowardice in confronting the Duterte family’s influence.
Duterte Defends Senate President Escudero
In contrast, Vice President Duterte defended Escudero, rejecting claims that he is afraid. She said, “Hindi natatakot yon. I do not know him natatakot na klase na politiko. Hindi ko alam saan nanggaling yon sinasabing takot.” Her statement suggests she believes Escudero is a fearless leader, despite the controversies.
The debate over the impeachment trial’s timing and legitimacy continues to unfold as the country watches closely. Legal experts and politicians remain divided, making this case a pivotal moment in Philippine political and legal history.
For more news and updates on impeachment trial crossover, visit Filipinokami.com.