Manila: Senate President Francis Escudero on Monday reminded the House of Representatives to respond formally and in unison after the Senate, sitting as an impeachment court, returned the articles of impeachment against Vice President Sara Duterte and asked the House to comply with specific procedural requirements.

According to Philippines News Agency, the Senate impeachment court recently voted to remand the articles of impeachment and directed the House to submit a certification that the complaint did not violate the one-year ban on impeachment, as well as a formal manifestation from the 20th Congress affirming its interest to pursue the case. Escudero emphasized that official communication should be done through a singular, collective filing, responding to House impeachment prosecutor Rep. Arnand Panaligan's comment that the court's order was unclear.

Escudero reiterated that the political process should not be handled through interviews, press releases, or social media posts. "Whatever the House wants to pursue, they must speak in one voice, in unison, through a pleading submitted to the impeachment court," he stated. He also noted that individual responses from House members would not be entertained and only a formal communication submitted through a pleading by the House prosecution panel would be considered.

When questioned about potential defiance due to non-compliance, Escudero said it would be up to the House. He explained that the presiding officer is expected to reconvene the impeachment court in the 20th Congress once the House and Vice President Duterte have submitted their respective responses.

Escudero highlighted the impeachment court's authority to cite parties in contempt, while emphasizing the legal differences between the House and the respondent. He pointed out that the respondent has the option not to answer, with procedures in place should they choose that route. If no response is given, the hearing will proceed with a plea of not guilty entered on the respondent's behalf.

The Senate impeachment court is expected to determine in the 20th Congress whether sanctions will be imposed on the House of Representatives for failing to comply with its order. However, before any action is taken, Escudero mentioned that House leaders will first need to explain their non-compliance.