Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero has denied speculations that the delay in the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte is part of a political maneuver to safeguard his position or influenced by any internal Senate power play.
In a press conference held Monday, Escudero clarified that the Senate’s decision to postpone the House’s transmittal of the articles of impeachment to June 11 was purely procedural. He emphasized that it was not politically motivated, nor was it an effort to shield any official from accountability.
“This has nothing to do with any supposed power struggle or protecting anyone,” Escudero stated. “The postponement was agreed upon to give way to the passage of priority legislation identified by the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC).”
The Senate chief also dismissed rumors that President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. had influenced the decision, despite the President’s previous statements indicating he was not in favor of removing the Vice President from office. Escudero said the executive branch had no hand in the scheduling of the impeachment proceedings.
The Senate is expected to convene as an impeachment court on June 11, when House prosecutors will formally present the articles of impeachment against Vice President Duterte. Following the presentation, the Senate will begin its formal trial process, including the issuance of summons and receipt of pleadings from both parties.
The House of Representatives impeached Duterte on February 5, 2025, on charges of culpable violation of the Constitution, betrayal of public trust, and graft and corruption. The allegations primarily stem from her alleged misuse of confidential and intelligence funds during her tenure.
Escudero assured the public that despite the delay, the Senate remains committed to upholding the Constitution and ensuring due process.
“We will carry out our constitutional duties with fairness and transparency,” he said.
