Senate President Vicente Sotto III on Monday expressed readiness to manage potential resistance within the chamber regarding the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, emphasizing that the process is a non-negotiable constitutional mandate.
Sotto’s remarks followed a statement from Senator Robin Padilla, who suggested that some lawmakers might oppose the formal convening of the Senate into an impeachment court. Despite these anticipated hurdles, the Senate leader maintained a prepared stance.
“As I’ve said, we will be ready for anything. We will be ready for any eventuality.”
When questioned on the procedure should certain senators move to block the proceedings, Sotto clarified that he would exercise his authority to elevate the matter to the plenary, ensuring the entire body decides on the action.
He noted that as Senate President, he serves as the official recipient of the articles of impeachment from the House of Representatives.
“I will bring it into the plenary and therefore, it will be the action of the Senate as a whole. I will be really catalyst or the initiative to bring it to the floor. Kasi sa akin ipapadala yan, pag pinadala sa Senate, it’s the Senate President that receives it.”
Sotto underscored that the Senate’s role is clearly defined by the 1987 Constitution, which obligates the chamber to transform into an impeachment court upon the delivery of the articles.
“Sundin natin ang Konstitusyon, which is to convene once we receive the articles of impeachment. That is part of our work, that is part of our job.”
The development comes as the House Committee on Justice officially approved the articles of impeachment against the Vice President on Monday. The document is expected to be endorsed for a plenary vote in the House before being transmitted to the Senate for the start of the trial.