Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero stated that his colleagues turned down a proposal for an all-member caucus to deliberate on the next steps in Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment trial.
Senate minority leader Aquilino Pimentel III had suggested holding a caucus to informally discuss the matter of convening, noting that the Senate went on recess this month without addressing it.
“Not at this time, no,” the Senate president said.
“How can it be an all senator caucus when some are traveling and some are abroad and some are not available and some aren’t interested?” Escudero added.
Escudero also dismissed claims that the trial is being delayed, stating that the Senate is “simply proceeding with it legally, constitutionally, and in accordance with the law.”
Nonetheless, Escudero emphasized his intention for the Senate to be fully prepared for the trial, which would entail extra expenses and additional workload for Senate staff.
He also noted that securing additional lawyers to assist with the impeachment trial has been challenging due to the “supposedly highly politically charged” nature of the proceedings.
“But, in the meantime, the solicitor general will stand and represent us in any litigation before any court. Most likely before the Supreme Court,” he said.
“Iyung kay VP Sara, i-intayin namin matanggap yung notice mula sa Korte Suprema. Because as I understand it — I’ve read the petition — there are no allegations against the Senate in the petition itself,” Escudero added.
