Vice President Sara Duterte’s Absence in Impeachment Trial Causes No Alarm
House of Representatives Spokesperson Princess Abante remains calm despite Vice President Sara Duterte’s absence from the country as the Senate prepares to start her impeachment trial. Abante emphasized the importance of the Senate commencing the process to clarify the next steps for prosecutors and the entire impeachment procedure.
“Ang importante simulan na ng Senado ang trial para alam na rin natin kung ano ang magiging susunod na hakbang ng prosecutors at ano ang mangyayari sa impeachment process,” Abante said during a press briefing on June 10.
Impeachment Rules Cover Absenteeism
Earlier reports confirmed that Vice President Duterte traveled to Malaysia for a personal trip with her family. This visit coincides with the Senate’s scheduled impeachment trial beginning on June 11, where senators will act as judges.
Abante expressed confidence in the impeachment rules, which provide guidelines on serving and notifying the accused, even if personal service is not possible. “I believe in the impeachment rules meron naman siyang nakalagay kung paano ang pag-serve at pag-notify sa accused. Ang requirement kasi diyan personal service pero meron din nakalagay sa rules on what to do if personal service cannot be made,” she explained.
Senate Prepares for Impeachment Proceedings
On June 9, Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero took his oath as the presiding officer for the impeachment trial. Other senator-judges are expected to take their oaths during the next plenary session.
The Office of the Vice President did not specify the exact date of Duterte’s departure but mentioned her plans to attend the Independence Day celebration in Kuala Lumpur on June 12. During her stay, she will also consult with overseas Filipino workers.
Background of the Impeachment Case
Vice President Duterte was impeached by the House of Representatives on February 5. The charges include culpable violation of the Constitution, betrayal of public trust, graft and corruption, and other grave offenses.
The accusations arise from the alleged misuse of P612.5 million in confidential and intelligence funds, with P500 million under the Office of the Vice President and P112.5 million under the Department of Education, during her simultaneous tenure in both offices.
If found guilty, the Vice President faces removal from office and a lifetime ban from holding any public position.
For more news and updates on Vice President Sara Duterte’s absence in impeachment trial, visit Filipinokami.com.