Manila: The Senate, acting as an impeachment court, has formally returned the Articles of Impeachment against Vice President Sara Duterte to the House of Representatives. This move comes alongside the issuance of a writ of summons for Duterte to respond to serious allegations, effectively canceling the scheduled presentation that was set for June 11.
According to Philippines News Agency, Senate President and Presiding Officer Francis Escudero confirmed that the Senate postponed further proceedings after convening as an impeachment court on June 10, when it issued necessary preliminary orders. In a letter to House Speaker Martin Romualdez, Escudero stated that the presentation was rendered 'moot' due to the initiation of formal court processes.
The letter, dated June 10, specified that the court had issued a summons and adopted impeachment trial rules. Escudero noted that the Senate adjourned at 9:39 p.m. on the same day to a date and time to be set by the Presiding Officer. A copy of this letter was also sent to Vice President Duterte.
The Senate Impeachment Court approved a motion filed by Senator-judge Ronald 'Bato' dela Rosa, amended by Senator-judge Alan Peter Cayetano, to return the Articles of Impeachment to the House. This return is contingent on two conditions: a certification that the one-year bar rule under the Constitution was not violated, and a declaration from the incoming 20th Congress expressing readiness to pursue the case. Escudero emphasized that this action was procedural and not a dismissal.
Despite returning the articles, the court issued a formal writ of summons to Duterte, requiring her to respond to charges outlined in Article I of the complaint. The summons, served by the Senate Sergeant-at-Arms, was received by the Office of the Vice President on June 11, mandating a response within three days.
The complaint accuses Duterte of betrayal of public trust, culpable violation of the Constitution, and committing high crimes, including allegedly contracting an assassin and plotting to kill the President, First Lady, and House Speaker. These claims were reportedly made by Duterte during a live broadcast.
Escudero dismissed suggestions that the House could disregard the Senate's directive, emphasizing that the Senate acts as the court and the House as the prosecutor in impeachment proceedings. He clarified that this is distinct from co-equal legislative functions.
Responding to legal and constitutional concerns, Escudero stated that only the Supreme Court can resolve such issues, acknowledging that history will determine the right or wrong actions in this situation.
