Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero has reiterated his call for newly elected and reelected senators to maintain neutrality regarding the impending impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, cautioning them against publicly expressing their positions until the trial officially begins.
Speaking at the Kapihan sa Senado on Thursday, Escudero emphasized the importance of upholding impartiality, especially for those who may feel compelled to take sides because of political endorsements. “Inendorso sila ni VP Sara pero hindi galing sa kanila… Ayon sa rules sana iwasan nila na magbigay ng categorical na posisyon o sagot kaugnay nito hanggat hindi pa nagsisimula ang trial,” Escudero stressed in a GMA News Online report.
The Senate chief noted that while some of the newly elected senators were endorsed by Duterte, political loyalty in the Philippines is often fluid. “Nakita niyo naman sa social media na nagbago-bago ng posisyon ang mga in-endorse dati… So kung ang pagbabasehan ko ay kasaysayan… nakikita natin na nagbabago-bago yon,” he added.
As the Senate gears up for the impeachment proceedings, which are set to begin on June 2, Escudero assured that preparations are already in place. This includes security measures, holding areas for the prosecution and defense panels, and even parking arrangements. A dry run is scheduled after the Senate adjourns sine die on June 13.
Senators who will serve as judges in the impeachment court will don crimson red robes, which were presented to the media on Thursday, symbolizing the solemnity of the proceedings.
