Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan remains undecided on a proposal for him to serve as the Senate’s impeachment manager, citing concerns over his current legislative commitments as chairperson of the Committee on Agriculture, Food and Agrarian Reform.
The senator clarified that the role is still in the discussion phase and will ultimately be determined by the Senate majority.
“Wala pa. It’s just a suggestion. Pero tingnan natin, it’s the decision of the majority,” he told Senate reporters.
Pangilinan noted that the position would likely focus on administrative and coordination tasks rather than legal arguments, acting essentially as a facilitator for the proceedings.
“May mga administrative matters that have to be addressed before we proceed to the actual trial. Parang impeachment court administrator,” he said.
He emphasized that because every senator acts as a judge during the trial, his role would be to assist the collective body rather than dictate legal opinions.
“My understanding kasi is it’s more administrative than legal kasi lahat kami judge. Lahat kami magkakaroon ng kanya-kanyang opinyon at lahat ng opinyon, hindi man sinasang-ayunan, lookout ng bawat judge yun,” he added.
Pangilinan expressed a strong desire to ensure that his primary advocacy—agriculture—does not take a backseat during the trial.
He specifically pointed to pending bills regarding agricultural cooperatives and extension services as his top priorities.
“Ayokong madiskaril yung bills na pending. Yung mga coop, agri extension service, agri-coop. Lahat agri. Yun naman talaga ang dahilan kung bakit tayo nanalo eh. Yun yung pinangako natin sa ating mga botante, dapat matupad ang ating mga pinangako,” he said.
The proposal was first floated by Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo “Ping” Lacson, who described the role as a “shepherd” of the proceedings to assist Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto III.
Lacson stressed the importance of having a member with trial experience to manage floor deliberations and legal objections.
The Senate is preparing for the possibility of a trial following the House Committee on Justice’s approval of an impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte.