Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero on Monday dismissed speculation that the postponement of Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment proceedings was tied to behind-the-scenes maneuvering over the Senate presidency.
Originally scheduled for June 2, the presentation of the Articles of Impeachment has been moved to June 11. Escudero cited the need to finish priority legislation before the 19th Congress adjourns sine die.
“There’s no connection whatsoever,” Escudero said at a Senate press briefing, referring to the timing of the impeachment and discussions about Senate leadership. “It has nothing to do, especially given the fact that the 20th Congress will have a totally different composition.”
While Escudero denied any link, he acknowledged that talks about the next Senate leadership are already underway, echoing earlier confirmations from Senators Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa and Christopher “Bong” Go.
Dela Rosa revealed that Escudero had approached members of the so-called Duterte bloc to talk about leadership dynamics. The group includes Go, Senators Imee Marcos and Robin Padilla, and Senator-elect Rodante Marcoleta.
Go also confirmed that both Escudero and incoming Senator Vicente “Tito” Sotto III are reaching out to their group in a bid for the top post in the upper chamber.
When asked if he was already campaigning for the Senate presidency, Escudero downplayed the idea but admitted he was talking to colleagues. “We’re discussing work not just for the 19th but also for the 20th,” he said. “But in my view, it’s still too early — whatever the answer is now might change next week or next month.”
Sotto, for his part, has openly expressed readiness to take the helm if he garners enough support from fellow senators.
