Philippine Senate Returns Duterte Impeachment Articles, Sparking Protests

The Philippine Senate's decision to return articles of impeachment against Vice President Sara Duterte to the House of Representatives has sparked protests and strong reactions from various political figures. The move, which followed a lengthy debate, has been interpreted by some, like Senator Risa Hontiveros, as a "functional dismissal." "Remanding is a functional dismissal; return is a functional dismissal," Hontiveros stated, expressing her disappointment. The vote was not unanimous; several senators, including Koko Pimentel, Risa Hontiveros, Nancy Binay, Grace Poe, and Sherwin Gatchalian, voted against returning the articles. This decision has significant implications for the ongoing political climate in the Philippines and raises questions about the future of the impeachment proceedings. The public response to the Senate's decision, evident in the protests outside the Senate building, underscores the importance of this development in the country's political landscape. The video concludes by showing the Senate President, Sen. Chiz Escudero, explaining that this action does not constitute a dismissal and that summons will be issued.