Senate President Escudero rejects inhibit calls for VP Duterte’s trial

Senate President Chiz Escudero rejected calls for him to inhibit himself from presiding over Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment trial.

Escudero emphasized during an interview that fairness means applying rules equally and dismissed the calls, stating there is no necessity in stepping aside.

Members of Samahan ng Progresibong Kabataan (SPARK) delivered an open letter on Monday urging Escudero to inhibit himself for public trust and accountability.

The student leaders argued that delays have created a toxic environment focused more on political intrigue than substantive issues, while Escudero countered by saying SPARK members are against the vice president's impeachment.

Escudero noted that the recent Supreme Court order showed that the high court shares some of the questions posed by the Senate to the House of Representatives and confirmed he is eyeing an August 4 start for the trial.