MANILA – Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero has welcomed Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel III’s willingness to lead the drafting of rules for the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte.
“I appreciate Senator Pimentel’s offer to assist in drafting the proposed rules. I will instruct our legal team to coordinate with him on this matter,” Escudero said in a Viber message to reporters on Monday.
However, he clarified that all proposals—including rules and the trial calendar—must be approved in plenary or by the Impeachment Court once Congress resumes on June 2.
“These are merely proposals at this stage. Final approval will be required once we reconvene,” Escudero added.
Pimentel’s initiative follows Senate Majority Leader Francis Tolentino’s recommendation to form a special subcommittee for drafting the impeachment rules. Pimentel said he is ready to take on the role but is awaiting an official assignment.
“I will wait for the official designation before discussing it with my staff. But like Senator Tolentino, I am willing to dedicate time to this responsibility,” Pimentel said.
The Senate is preparing for the impeachment trial following the House of Representatives’ transmittal of the Articles of Impeachment against Vice President Duterte on February 5. The trial is expected to commence once the Senate reconvenes.
Escudero has previously ordered the creation of an administrative support group to ensure the Senate’s readiness for the proceedings.
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