Senator Jinggoy Estrada arrives at the Sandiganbayan in Quezon City for his arraignment on graft charges on Tuesday (June 2, 2026), which was reset to June 4 after co-accused former Public Works and Highways Secretary Manuel Bonoan sought a postponement due to health concerns. (PNA photo by Robert Alfiler)
Detained Senator Jinggoy Estrada rejected claims Friday that he could no longer serve as a senator-judge in the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte.
Estrada said the matter remained unresolved because proceedings on his possible suspension in the Senate were still pending.
In a statement sent by his staff to Senate reporters, Estrada said it was premature to conclude that he had lost the authority to perform his constitutional role in the impeachment court.
He said he had yet to submit his comment and opposition in the suspension proceedings and could still pursue available legal remedies.
Estrada also criticized what he described as broad public claims made by individuals weighing in on his possible participation in the trial.
He said some commentators appeared more focused on influencing public opinion than allowing the proper institutions to resolve the legal issues.
Estrada noted that he had previously served as a senator-judge in an impeachment trial and understood the rules, duties, and procedures involved.
The senator, who remains detained over a non-bailable plunder charge, said he would continue to respect the legal process, defend his rights, and perform his duties under the Constitution and the law. The Senate impeachment trial is expected to begin on July 6.
