Senator Robin Padilla asserted on Saturday his right to publicly defend former President Rodrigo Duterte and Vice President Sara Duterte, noting that the Senate has not yet formally convened as an impeachment court.
Padilla explained that his current vocal support for the Dutertes is rooted in their shared political ties under the Partido Demokratiko Pilipino-Lakas ng Bayan (PDP-Laban).
“Ngayon na hindi pa naman kami convened, karapatan kong ipagtanggol si (former President) bilang ako ay PDP-Laban member. Lahat ay gagawin ko para ipagtanggol ko (ang mga Duterte).”
Despite his current stance, the senator clarified that he recognizes the gravity of the Senate’s constitutional mandate.
He pledged to abandon political biases once the formal trial begins.
“Pero pag dumating ang punto na ako binigyan ng sumbrero ng pagiging judge, ako po ay wala nang papanigan.”
The statement comes as the House of Representatives is scheduled to vote on May 11 regarding the articles of impeachment against Vice President Duterte.
The complaint cites several heavy allegations, including the misuse of confidential funds, unexplained wealth, and alleged threats against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and other top officials.
Under the Constitution, the House requires at least 106 votes—representing one-third of its total membership—to successfully impeach the Vice President and send the case to the Senate for trial.