Vice President Sara Duterte’s future is now in the hands of 23 senators after she was impeached on Wednesday.
The House of Representatives sent a 33-page complaint to the Senate. It includes six charges against the vice president.
Duterte will remain in her position as the country’s second-highest leader until the Senate, acting as an Impeachment Court, makes a decision on the case.
Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero explained that once the complaint reaches the Senate, they are required by the Constitution to act as an impeachment court. The senators will then meet to set the rules and procedures for the trial, which could take about three weeks.
Escudero said the impeachment trial is a political process but also part of the Senate’s duty. He stressed that it must be handled properly.
“It doesn’t matter if we like it or find it convenient. What’s important is that the Constitution requires us to do this job. If it happens, we will do our part,” he said during a media forum called “Kapihan sa Senado,” where Senate reporters gather.
On Wednesday night, the Senate ended its session to prepare for the May 12, 2025 elections. Unless a special session is called, regular sessions will resume on June 2, 2025, possibly with new senators.
