Senator Panfilo “Ping” Lacson has issued a strong reminder to his colleagues in the 20th Congress, cautioning against any moves to prematurely dismiss the impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte.
This came after Senate impeachment court spokesperson Regie Tongol warned of heated debates in the plenary should Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa push through with filing a resolution to terminate the impeachment trial.
VP Duterte is currently facing charges related to alleged betrayal of public trust and questionable use of confidential funds.
On X (formerly Twitter), Lacson posted a firm reminder:
“VP Impeachment Jurisdiction: A gentle caution to senator-judges of the impeachment court – we should leave the filing of all motions and pleadings to the prosecution and defense teams. Our job is to listen to their arguments and counter-arguments and make a ruling.”
The senator stressed the importance of maintaining impartiality in the process, reminding Senate members that their role is to act as judges—not participants—in the proceedings.
He emphasized that senators are bound only to three decisions as part of the impeachment court: to convict, acquit, or inhibit.
Lacson, known for his firm stance on public accountability and fiscal transparency, urged the chamber to uphold the integrity of the Senate by ensuring a fair and unbiased hearing.