The Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) has been appointed to represent the Senate in legal challenges related to the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, as confirmed by Senate President Francis Escudero during a press conference in Quezon City. Escudero disclosed that he has already passed on a petition from Duterte’s supporters to the OSG, which seeks a Supreme Court injunction to stop the Senate’s impeachment proceedings. Additionally, Duterte herself has challenged the legality of the impeachment complaint against her, and another petition for mandamus was filed last week, pressing the Supreme Court to order the Senate to start the impeachment trial immediately. Escudero clarified that the Senate will not directly respond to the mandamus petition, instead delegating this responsibility to the OSG. He stated, ‘We have referred this matter to the Solicitor General’s Office, which acts as the government’s lawyer. The SolGen will respond, appear, and handle the case on behalf of the Senate.’ Although the Senate’s legal team prepared an advisory for Escudero’s review, it will be sent to the OSG for their reference. Escudero also mentioned that separate petitions for certiorari were filed by Davao City councilors and Vice President Duterte. He suggested that the Senate’s recess might have been fortuitous, allowing these issues to be addressed by the Supreme Court before the trial resumes, thus preventing any delays or technical objections from Duterte. Escudero emphasized that the Senate will continue its constitutional duties unless the Supreme Court issues a restraining order or a preliminary injunction.
Solicitor General to Defend Senate in Impeachment Case Before Supreme Court
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