MANILA — Senate President Francis Escudero outlined the impeachment process for Vice President Sara Z. Duterte and addressed various political matters during a press conference in Sorsogon on Tuesday.

Impeachment Process and Timeline

Escudero clarified that the impeachment trial of Vice President Duterte is unlikely to start before late July. The earliest possible trial date would be July 29 or 30, after the Senate reconvenes post-State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 28.

Despite the impeachment complaint being filed on February 5, the process cannot begin until Congress reconvenes on June 2.

The pre-trial phase, including issuing summons and exchanging pleadings, will likely continue through June 30, coinciding with the end of terms for 12 senators. Escudero expects the 20th Congress to handle most of the trial. He stressed that the process will follow constitutional procedures and due process, rejecting any notion of it being a political maneuver.

Clarifying Speculations on His Political Future

Escudero also dismissed speculation about his political ambitions. He clarified that, in the event of a vice-presidential vacancy, the President must nominate a replacement, subject to approval by Congress—not automatically the Senate President. Regarding his own political future, he firmly stated, “I have no interest in running for vice president or president.” After nearly 30 years in politics, Escudero expressed a desire to step back and allow others to take the lead.

Impeachment Not a National Security Threat

Escudero downplayed concerns that Duterte’s impeachment might destabilize national security, emphasizing that the impeachment process is a constitutional safeguard. He stated, “If she’s innocent, she has nothing to fear,” and reiterated that the impeachment was about ensuring accountability, not undermining national stability. He also rejected claims of foreign influence in the impeachment, particularly from the United States, calling such accusations baseless.

Gaming Industry: POGO Ban vs. PIGO

On the topic of gaming policies, Escudero confirmed the administration’s ban on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) due to concerns over illegal activities and national security risks. However, he pointed out that Philippine Inland Gaming Operations (PIGO) remain legal, raising concerns about potential inconsistencies in gaming policies. “If POGO is harmful for foreigners, is PIGO beneficial for Filipinos? That’s the next issue we need to study,” he said.

Financial Aid and Election Restrictions

Escudero defended the continuation of government assistance programs like the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) and the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS), emphasizing that these programs have been ongoing since the administration of President Benigno Aquino III, continued under Rodrigo Duterte, and persist under President Marcos. He also discussed the Commission on Elections (Comelec) rules, noting that financial aid distribution is allowed except during the 10-day election ban.

West Philippine Sea: Diplomacy Over Conflict

Finally, Escudero weighed in on the West Philippine Sea dispute, dismissing any suggestion of military action. “The Philippines renounces war as an instrument of policy,” he said, noting that public sentiment strongly opposes armed conflict over the issue. He reiterated that diplomacy remains the Philippines’ best option, supporting President Marcos’ efforts to strengthen international alliances in response to China’s maritime activities.

ia/mnm