Senator Erwin Tulfo on Sunday dismissed rumors of a potential change in Senate leadership, calling the move a desperate and “obvious” attempt to block the impending impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte.
Speaking in a radio interview, Tulfo argued that ousting Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto III would only raise more public suspicion rather than resolve the Vice President’s legal woes.
“It’s not the answer. Magtatanong ang mga tao bakit nagkudeta? A question cannot answer another question,” Tulfo said. “Magiging halatang halata sila, kung ‘yung grupong mag-i-initiate ng kudeta. How will they explain to the public na kaya nag-coup para hindi matuloy ang impeachment?”
Senate President Sotto, meanwhile, remained unfazed by the rumors, stating he is prepared to vacate his seat if he no longer holds the trust of his colleagues.
“I heard. As always, I serve at the pleasure of my peers. I uphold and follow the Constitution! I leave everything to God’s plan. I trust HIS Heart!” Sotto said in a statement.
Trial Logistics and Rules
If the House of Representatives transmits the articles of impeachment, Tulfo revealed that the Senate plans to hold the trial every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, starting at 3 p.m.
However, questions remain regarding the Senate’s rules, particularly if the Vice President chooses to resign mid-trial.
“What if the individual will resign during the trial so hindi matatapos, are we still going to pursue? Ang initial na usapan, let us just pursue, let us just continue. What about the perpetual disqualification meron pa ba? ’Yung ang pag-uusapan sa rules kasi hindi malinaw ngayon sa rules,” Tulfo added.
Path to the Senate
The House Committee on Justice, chaired by Rep. Gerville Luistro, is scheduled to sponsor the committee report in the plenary on Monday, May 11. The Vice President faces allegations of:
- Misuse of ₱612.5 million in confidential funds.
- Threats against the President, First Lady, and the former Speaker.
- Unexplained wealth accumulation.
A total of 106 votes (one-third of the House) are required to officially impeach Duterte and move the proceedings to the Senate.