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.

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By Liza Soriano

MANILA — Senate President Chiz Escudero urged senators to refrain from discussing the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte.

Escudero reminded his colleagues of their role as trial judges, should the impeachment trial proceed.

“My interest is to maintain fairness, the impartiality of the court, and the credibility of any decision the impeachment court may render,” he said.

“That is why I am reminding senators to exercise caution in making statements regarding the impeachment, especially when they have yet to see evidence from both sides or make any final decisions on the matter,” he added.

Escudero previously stated that the Senate cannot immediately begin the impeachment trial, noting it may start after President “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s fourth State of the Nation Address.

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MANILA – Senate President Francis Escudero predicted Thursday (06 Feb 2025) that the impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte will become a central issue in the May 12 midterm elections. He emphasized that the case could shift the focus of the elections from personality-based politics to a more issue-driven process.

Escudero argued that the impeachment provides voters with a tangible issue to raise with candidates, especially for those running for Congress and Senate. He noted that the 20th Congress, elected in May, will ultimately decide the case, making it relevant for both candidates and voters.

However, Escudero cautioned candidates to remain neutral until all evidence is reviewed. He also discouraged premature judgments, emphasizing the need for fairness in the trial process.

Despite concerns that the impeachment might destabilize the country, Escudero stressed that it is a constitutional mechanism aimed at resolving disputes peacefully.

As one of the 12 senators whose terms extend beyond the elections, Escudero urged senatorial candidates to be careful with their rhetoric and to commit only to upholding justice and the law, regardless of the case’s outcome.

The coming months will test how political leaders navigate issue-based campaigning, Escudero said.

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SENATE President Francis ‘Chiz’ Escudero has expressed reservations about Senate Bill No. 1979, the Adolescent Pregnancy Bill, currently under deliberation in the chamber.

Escudero stated, “As it was originally reported, no. At least not in its entirety. In fact, I have relayed to the author several proposed amendments.”

He emphasized that the bill is still in the legislative process and in the period of interpellation. He is committed to ensuring the bill’s provisions are properly aligned with necessary safeguards and amendments before casting his vote.

“I will await the final version that will be put to a vote, where, hopefully, most of my proposed amendments will be carried,” he added, without specifying his amendments.

Escudero also denied claims that former Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno influenced his position, clarifying that Sereno only expressed concerns about the bill, as her group opposes it.

Authored by Senate Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros, SB 1979 has faced criticism from groups like Project Dalisay, which Sereno represents.

They specifically object to a provision in the bill they claim teaches bodily pleasure and sexual rights to young children.

By Liza Soriano

Senators have welcomed the appointment of Francisco Tiu Laurel as the new Department of Agriculture Secretary.

Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri said that Laurel has the management experience and the “common touch to lead what is perhaps the most important agency in the country today.”

“I am glad that the President personally headed the Department of Agriculture for a time… but it is also right that the DA now be helmed by a new Secretary who can be devoted to the agriculture sector,” Zubiri said in a statement.

Sen. Chiz Escudero lauded President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. for choosing a full-time DA Secretary.

Escudero said he has known Laurel to be a “sincere, no-nonsense, honest and hardworking patriot.”

“I congratulate Secretary Laurel on his appointment, wish him well, and look forward to working with him.”

Meanwhile, Sen. Grace Poe said that the new DA chief must have the focus, fortitude to get things done, and genuine feeling for the sector.

“As the first order of the day, we hope the new DA chief would take to heart the President’s warning in his SONA against smugglers, hoarders and price fixers,” Poe said.

“Kailangan din ng pangmatagalang programang magpapapataas sa produksyon sa agrikultura at mangangalaga sa kapakanan ng ating magsasaka,” she added.

On Friday, Marcos announced that he administered the oath of Laurel as the new DA Secretary.

(ai/mnm)