Tulfo urges Sara Duterte to face impeachment trial

Senator Raffy Tulfo reiterated his call for Vice President Sara Duterte to prove her innocence by allowing the ongoing impeachment trial to proceed, emphasizing that it would provide Duterte an opportunity to defend herself and share her side of the story.

Tulfo said on Tuesday, July 15, that he wants the impeachment trial to continue so that Duterte can clear her name through the process rather than dismissing it outright.

The senator has been consulting legal advice from former justices of the Supreme Court and Sandiganbayan in preparation for the trial to make informed decisions.

Senator Alan Cayetano had previously amended a motion to dismiss the case, returning it to the House of Representatives for further certification while the Senate impeachment court continues its proceedings.

Ronald 'Bato' Dela Rosa, Duterte's ally, suggested that the Senate should determine whether it is willing to continue with the case initiated by the previous Senate.

Tulfo firmly rejected any outright dismissal and insisted on a trial to allow Duterte to prove her innocence, stating his satisfaction with Senate President Chiz Escudero's handling of the impeachment proceedings despite criticisms of delays.

The senator believes that jurisdiction over the case has already been established and should not be up for discussion.