Senators criticize Escudero, Tongol for speaking on Senate's behalf in impeachment court

Two senators criticized Senate President Francis Escudero and spokesman Reginald Tongol for speaking on behalf of the Senate impeachment court.

Senator Risa Hontiveros argued that Tongol's statements do not reflect the collective judgment of the Senate, emphasizing inconsistencies in the court's actions.

Hontiveros urged the Senate to conduct the oath-taking of new senator-judges from the 20th Congress, a move Tongol opposed until a new Senate President is elected and compliance with requirements set by the impeachment court are met.

She questioned the contradiction in Tongol’s statements, noting that officials who insist the court cannot act before the 20th Congress starts are already making unilateral decisions on its rules.

Hontiveros stressed the importance of respecting due process and allowing senator-judges to decide only when properly convened.

The House impeached Vice President Sara Duterte on February 5, accusing her of betrayal of public trust, culpable violation of the constitution, graft and corruption, and other high crimes.