Castro criticizes Escudero for delaying VP Duterte's impeachment trial

House Deputy Minority Leader France Castro criticized Senate President Francis Escudero for delaying the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte.

Castro emphasized that acting on impeachment complaints is a constitutional duty and not influenced by public opinion or political timing, stating it is about fulfilling duties as public servants in accordance with the law.

Escudero had questioned the urgency of expediting the Senate's role in the impeachment proceedings, maintaining that Duterte's trial might only start when Congress resumes its session in June.

Castro stressed the importance of convening the impeachment court promptly to avoid delays that could benefit Duterte who is challenging the complaint legally and exploring various legal remedies to halt the trial.

The senator noted that the Senate is slowly preparing for the trial by reviewing materials from previous impeachment cases.

Escudero reiterated that the trial would commence after the new Congress enters its functions following the State of the Nation Address on July 21.