Senate cannot proceed with VP Duterte's impeachment trial without presidential call

Senate President Francis 'Chiz' Escudero stated on Sunday that without a special session called by President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr., the Senate cannot proceed with the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte.

Escudero's stance was echoed by former Senate leader Franklin Drilon, who reiterated in a radio interview that only the President has the authority to convene Congress for a special session.

Drilon emphasized that any deviation from the set calendar is not permissible unless allowed by the Constitution and stressed that an impeachment court cannot be convened without a formal call from the President.

The former Senate leader noted that the ball is in the President's hands, as only he can compel Congress to convene for a special session if it is not already in session.

Drilon added that while there are instances when Congress can meet without a formal call from the President, these situations do not apply to convening an impeachment court, which requires a special session.