Senators Villanueva and Padilla reconcile after impeachment debate

Tension arose between Senators Joel Villanueva and Robin Padilla during Tuesday's plenary session over opposing views on dismissing an impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte.

Villanueva objected to Dela Rosa's motion to terminate the verified impeachment complaint, arguing that since the impeachment court had not yet convened, the Senate lacked constitutional authority to dismiss it.

Padilla, known as an ally of the Duterte family, contended that the impeachment court was scheduled to convene on Wednesday, June 11.

After a heated exchange during the session, Padilla approached Villanueva and was pulled apart by their colleagues before Sen. Chiz Escudero ruled it appropriate for the Senate to convene as an impeachment court.

Following this ruling, Padilla shook hands with Villanueva, who then hugged him, joined by Dela Rosa.

Escudero said in a press conference that such high emotions during politically-charged processes were normal and noted that the two senators had settled their differences amicably.