MANILA – Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero insisted on Tuesday that the impeachment process does not have to begin immediately after the House of Representatives transmits the complaint to the Senate, contradicting the stance of former Supreme Court Justice Adolf Azcuna.
Escudero cited past impeachment cases, such as those against Chief Justice Renato Corona and Ombudsman Merceditas Gutierrez, both of which were not tackled immediately by the Senate despite constitutional wording stating that the trial shall “forthwith proceed.”
Azcuna, however, argued that impeachment proceedings are independent of Congress’ legislative calendar and should begin immediately, even if the Senate is in recess. He emphasized that the Constitution itself serves as the call to convene, making it a “constituent power” separate from legislative constraints.
Escudero maintained that a session is required for the impeachment rules to be approved and the impeachment court to be convened. Since this did not happen before Congress adjourned on February 5, he stated that the trial of Vice President Sara Duterte would likely begin after the State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 21, 2025.
Meanwhile, Senator JV Ejercito echoed Escudero’s view, saying there is no need to rush the trial. He also revealed that senators have been instructed not to discuss the matter publicly, as they will serve as judges in the proceedings.