Senator Risa Hontiveros on Friday dismissed allegations that senator-judges have already reached a verdict in the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, clarifying that the chamber will not make any decisions without first reviewing the cases from both sides.
In an interview with reporters, Hontiveros emphasized that senators are waiting for the formal presentation of evidence and witness testimonies during the actual trial.
“We are waiting for the first time, finally, marinig anumang mga ebidensya, mapakinggan, maaring matanong ang sinumang mga witnesses na iharap sa amin, both ng prosecution at ng defense,” Hontiveros said.
The senator made the statement to address public speculation that the Senate would bypass the evaluation of evidence and immediately hand down a judgment.
Hontiveros strongly refuted the rumors, maintaining that senators have taken an oath as senator-judges and are dedicated to performing their duties with complete partiality.
She noted that while the Senate impeachment court has already concluded its pre-trial conference—where documentary submissions and preliminary matters were handled—the actual trial remains the proper stage for both parties to formally argue their cases.
“So, I think imposible na mag-decide na lang kami at the outset. Kasi paano namin gagawin? Hindi namin puwedeng gawin ‘yun unless marinig nga po namin itong lahat ng ito,” she added.
According to Hontiveros, the final votes of the senator-judges will rely solely on the testimonies, documents, and other pieces of evidence presented during the court proceedings.
The formal impeachment trial is scheduled to begin on July 6.