Duterte Impeachment Trial: Legal Battle Looms as Congress Adjourns

The Impeachment Trial of Vice President Sara Duterte: A Clash of Rules and Uncertain Future The impeachment trial of Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte is facing uncertainty as the 19th Congress nears its end. Senator-elect Tito Sotto has raised concerns about whether the trial can be successfully transferred to the 20th Congress, citing conflicting information within the impeachment rules and Senate rules. "The impeachment rules and Senate rules differ on this matter," Sotto stated in a recent interview. "This creates a potential complication." The House prosecution panel is expected to present the articles of impeachment on June 2nd, but the conflicting rules raise questions about the trial's continuity. A representative from the panel, Rep. Lorenz Defensor, explained that the panel's work is focused on the passage of legislation, not necessarily on the impeachment trial's continuation. "The case will continue in the trial court, regardless of changes in the judges," Defensor clarified. "It is a justifiable issue that can be addressed by the Supreme Court." The GMA Integrated News report highlights the complexities involved and the differing perspectives among key players. This ongoing situation will undoubtedly continue to be a major topic in the Philippines' political landscape.