Escudero, Pimentel: Padilla's SC charter change petition premature

Senate President Francis "Chiz" Escudero believes Senator Robin Padilla's Supreme Court petition concerning charter change is premature.

Escudero stated that the Supreme Court currently lacks jurisdiction because there is no justiciable controversy required for the court to take on any petition.

He offered his opinion as a lawyer but emphasized that he does not want to preempt the Supreme Court's decision.

Senate Minority Leader Aquilino "Koko" Pimentel III echoed Escudero's sentiment, urging not to "waste the Supreme Court's precious time."

Pimentel further stated that Padilla's bid is not only premature but also outside the Supreme Court's jurisdiction, as it should be devoted to actual controversies rather than advisory opinions.

Senator Padilla, who heads the Senate committee on constitutional amendments, had previously urged the High Court to schedule oral arguments for his petition regarding whether Congress should vote jointly or separately on constitutional amendments.