Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan has emerged as a potential choice to preside over the upcoming impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, which is scheduled to resume on July 6.
Senate President Pro Tempore Win Gatchalian confirmed on Wednesday that senators are currently deliberating the option of appointing a lawyer-senator to lead the proceedings. The approach was initially suggested by Senator Vicente “Tito” Sotto III.
When questioned if Pangilinan was among the candidates being evaluated for the role, Gatchalian affirmed the ongoing discussions.
“Tama ka, sinabi ni Sen. Sotto ‘yun. At ‘yan ang kasalukuyang pinag-uusapan,” Gatchalian said.
Meanwhile, Gatchalian noted that logistical preparations for the historic trial are moving forward, noting that formal pretrial notices have already been distributed to both legal camps.
“Yes, I signed the notice for pretrial yesterday. So pinadala na namin ‘yan both to the defense and the prosecution team,” Gatchalian added.
Despite these advancements, Gatchalian clarified that the Senate has yet to make a final determination on who will officially head the impeachment court, as lawmakers continue to iron out details ahead of next month’s trial.