Manila: The Senate, acting as an impeachment court, has issued a writ of summons to Vice President Sara Duterte, directing her to respond to the articles of impeachment within 10 days of receipt. This development follows a decision by the Senate to return the complaint to the House of Representatives for further clarification, as announced by Senate President and presiding officer Francis 'Chiz' Escudero.

According to Philippines News Agency, the Senate voted 18-5 to return the complaint, but Escudero emphasized that this action does not equate to a dismissal of the case. The impeachment process remains active, and the issuance of the summons indicates that the Senate intends to adhere to its procedural rules. Escudero stated that the Senate aims to give prosecutors the chance to address legal concerns without prematurely judging the matter.

Under Article 7 of the Senate Rules of Procedure on Impeachment Trials, the issuance of a summons occurs following the formal organization of the court and the presentation of the articles of impeachment. Vice President Duterte is required to file her response within a 10-day, non-extendible period upon receiving the summons and complaint. Prosecutors will have five days to file their reply thereafter.

Escudero expressed gratitude to the Senate members, particularly Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, for facilitating a robust discussion that enriched both the Senate's records and the national dialogue. He noted that the conclusion of the first vote by the impeachment court marks the beginning of what could be a series of votes in the coming weeks and months, spanning the 19th and potentially the 20th Congress.