In a surprising twist, former Senate President Vicente ‘Tito’ Sotto III has hinted that the impeachment trial against Vice President Sara Duterte might commence during the 19th Congress, challenging Senate President Francis Escudero’s claim that it would be deferred to the 20th Congress. Sotto, speaking at a press conference in Dumaguete City for the administration-backed Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas senatorial slate, revealed that several senators believe the trial could start sooner.
Sotto emphasized the seriousness of the constitutional duty and the need for readiness, regardless of when the trial begins. He questioned the delay, suggesting that the Senate could have initiated proceedings as early as February 5, when it received the impeachment articles. He lamented the missed opportunity to hold hearings during the congressional break, which could have expedited the process.
Contrarily, Escudero has stated that the Senate would only form an impeachment court after President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s fourth State of the Nation Address in July, and no trial would occur during the break due to senators’ focus on reelection campaigns. Former Senator Panfilo Lacson, also at the press conference, argued that the trial would extend beyond the current Congress due to the time needed for evidence presentation, dismissing the possibility of a swift resolution.
Senate Majority Leader Francis Tolentino suggested that the Supreme Court might need to clarify whether the 19th Congress has sole jurisdiction over the impeachment. The administration’s senatorial lineup, including notable figures like Manny Pacquiao and Imee Marcos, remains closely watched as the political drama unfolds.