Manila: Senate President Vicente Sotto III announced that the impeachment trial proper could start by mid-June once the Articles of Impeachment are transmitted to the Senate. He stated that upon receipt, he would immediately convene the impeachment court, indicating swift action on the matter.

According to Philippines News Agency, Sotto detailed that the Articles will first be reported to the plenary before being referred to the Committee on Rules. The Senate would then be convened as an impeachment court. He clarified that 'forthwith' should be interpreted as immediate action, countering recent interpretations of a Supreme Court ruling. The requirement for action 'within reasonable time' pertains to the trial proper, not the convening of the impeachment court.

Sotto outlined the process, which includes giving the respondent 10 working days to answer the complaint, followed by five days for the prosecution's reply, before moving to pre-trial. He emphasized conducting a pre-trial to mark evidence, identify witnesses, and stipulate facts to streamline proceedings and prevent delays. Sotto also refuted reports of lobbying to block the impeachment, asserting his neutrality.

Sotto reassured that the Senate is prepared for any attempts to delay the convening of the impeachment court. He stated that the chamber is ready for any eventuality and declined to comment on speculative reports of moves to derail the process, noting that discussions remain premature.