Pimentel to draft impeachment rules, set stage for VP Duterte trial
MANILA, Philippines — In his bid to help speed up processes in relation to the impeachment trial against Vice President Sara Duterte, Senate Minority Leader Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III said his office would be submitting proposed and revised rules for the judicial proceeding.
Pimentel made the categorical stand on Tuesday after he was asked to comment on Senate Majority Leader Francis Tolentino’s remark, saying that Pimentel should start drafting the rules if he’s in a rush.
“Trabaho muna, bago boto. Senators have a constitutional duty that comes before anything else. Having said that, my office will be submitting our proposed rules for the impeachment to help speed up the process,” Pimentel told reporters.
READ: VP Duterte’s trial should start soon, Pimentel insists
Both Pimentel and Tolentino are campaigning for the upcoming midterm polls in May.
Pimentel is running for a congressional seat in Makati city’s first district while Tolentino is vying for another term in the Senate.
Article continues after this advertisementSenate President Chiz Escudero previously said that the proper impeachment trial against Duterte would begin after President Bongbong Marcos’ fourth State of the Nation Address in July.
Article continues after this advertisementDespite calls from various organizations and groups, Escudero made clear that they do not intend to delay the proceeding.
He said they will follow the law and the rules regardless of who it happens to benefit.
“The law is the law and we will not bend nor violate it on the mere desire or ask of partisan and biased individuals or sectors. I will favor no one and will ensure a fair and equitable procedure that will render justice to all concerned,” said Escudero.
