Senator Jinggoy Estrada has dismissed assertions that he is disqualified from participating as a senator-judge in the upcoming impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte.
In a statement released on Friday, Estrada described the claims regarding his potential removal as groundless and damaging to the judicial system.
“Until a final and binding ruling is rendered, any assertion that I have been stripped of my authority to discharge my constitutional duties as a senator-judge is premature, baseless, and undermines the integrity of the impeachment process itself,” he asserted.
He also criticized individuals calling for his disqualification, adding that they show a troubling disregard for due process and the orderly administration of justice.
Questions about Estrada’s eligibility emerged following his arrest over a ₱573 million plunder case connected to alleged anomalies in flood control projects. He is currently detained at the Quezon City Jail alongside former Senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr.
Estrada pointed out that the legal arguments regarding his suspension pendente lite are still pending and unresolved.
“Pursuant to the directive of the court, I have yet to file my comment and opposition and avail myself of the legal remedies available to me,” he explained.
The senator expressed disappointment with legal commentators discussing his capacity to sit in the trial, stating that they have jumped to conclusions prematurely.
“Sana, lalong-lalo na ang mga nasa legal profession, hindi nila pinapangunahan ng sariling interpretasyon ang mga usapin na dapat ay napapagpasyahan ng tamang awtoridad,” he remarked.
Estrada also reminded critics of his legislative background, noting that he previously served as a senator-judge during the 2012 impeachment trial of the late Chief Justice Renato Corona.
“Nakalimutan din yata ng ilan na minsan na rin akong nagsilbi bilang senator-judge sa isang impeachment trial,” he noted.
Despite the ongoing criminal charges before the anti-graft court, Estrada reiterated his commitment to addressing the matter through proper judicial channels while continuing his legislative duties.
“Patuloy kong igagalang ang proseso ng batas, ipagtatanggol ang aking mga karapatan sa pamamagitan ng mga paraang naaayon sa batas, at gagampanan ang aking mga tungkulin alinsunod sa Konstitusyon,” he concluded.