Philippine Senate Remands Duterte Impeachment, Raising Questions About Trial's Future

The Philippine Senate's decision to return the impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte to the House of Representatives has sparked debate and uncertainty about the future of the proceedings. Senator Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa initially moved to dismiss the complaint, arguing it violated the Constitution. However, after Senator Chiz Escudero suggested a remand instead, Dela Rosa revised his motion. The Senate ultimately voted 18-5 in favor of remanding the case. "Remanding is a functional dismissal," stated Senator Risa Hontiveros, expressing concerns from the minority bloc about the potential for the trial's termination. Senator Chiz Escudero clarified that the remand doesn't equate to dismissal, as Vice President Duterte will still receive a writ of summons to answer the charges. This decision delays the full trial, raising doubts about its eventual progression. The House of Representatives must now certify that their actions did not violate the Constitution and express their desire to continue with the trial. The outcome leaves the future of the impeachment proceedings uncertain.