The impeachment of Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte is anticipated to proceed following the mid-term elections in May. The trial may be determined by a newly elected cohort of lawmakers, as the outcome of the countrywide elections on May 12 will shape the next Congress. The Senate trial is expected to extend into the 20th Congress, marking a significant political event in the nation's history.
On Wednesday, the House of Representatives impeached Vice President Duterte, with 215 members out of 306 voting in favor. The impeachment charges include allegations of financial fraud, planning an assassination against President Ferdinand Marcos, and connections to extrajudicial killings linked to the "drug war" in Davao. Duterte, who was initially expected to succeed her father Rodrigo Duterte as president in the 2022 elections, instead supported Marcos and ran for vice president on his ticket.
The current Senate is set to reconvene on June 2. Yet, there is the possibility of a special session if President Marcos calls for it, contingent upon a vote from the 24 sitting senators. However, it appears more likely that the trial will commence after the mid-term elections. Francis Escudero commented on the timing, stating:
"That's almost a sure thing now." – Francis Escudero
Adding to this perspective, House Deputy Majority Leader Lorenz Defensor acknowledged that the trial could "cross over to the next Congress." He emphasized the Senate's role in determining the impeachment process:
"We leave it up to the Senate as a separate body and as an impartial body to adjudicate… how they will proceed with the impeachment process." – Lorenz Defensor
Vice President Duterte has not publicly addressed her impeachment. She has previously been investigated by the House regarding her spending practices, and the alleged assassination plot is among several accusations detailed in three separate complaints filed against her in December.
Escudero further elaborated on procedural aspects, indicating a preference for conducting the trial during a regular Senate session:
"But I feel the trial has to take place when the Senate is in session." – Francis Escudero
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