Manila: The Supreme Court (SC) has instructed Senate President Vicente "Tito" Sotto III to respond to a petition for indirect contempt. This petition is linked to his comments regarding the high court's decision on a case questioning the 2025 impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte.

According to Philippines News Agency, the resolution requiring Sotto's response was dispatched to him on May 4, 2026. In compliance with this resolution, Sotto is obligated to submit his comments within ten days of receiving the notice, with a deadline set for May 14, 2026, as confirmed by SC Spokesperson lawyer Camille Sue Mae Ting in a communication to reporters.

The petition was lodged under Rule 71 of the Rules of Court. This rule pertains to indirect contempt committed beyond the confines of the court, which could potentially hinder, obstruct, or degrade the administration of justice.

This legal action was prompted by Sotto's public remarks, which the petitioners argue have eroded public confidence in the judiciary.

Sotto has downplayed the criticisms, referring to the petition as a "nuisance" suit and asserting that his comments were merely a legitimate critique of the court's decisions.