Senator Chiz Escudero has clarified that the delay in the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte is not meant to benefit or harm anyone. Instead, he emphasized that the process is simply following the rules laid out in the Philippine Constitution. While the delay has sparked both curiosity and criticism, Escudero insists that fairness and legality must come first.
Why the Impeachment Trial Is Delayed
Legal Procedures Must Be Followed
Senator Chiz Escudero explained that the Senate cannot form an impeachment court or begin a trial during a congressional recess. The Senate must first resume its session, which is scheduled for July 2025. Once in session, senators must formally take an oath as impeachment judges before any trial can proceed.
This requirement ensures that the process is not rushed or done in an improper manner. According to Escudero, following these steps is critical for maintaining the legitimacy of the impeachment proceedings.
Avoiding Legal Challenges Later
By strictly following constitutional rules, the Senate avoids possible legal problems in the future. If the trial begins during a recess or without proper procedures, it could be challenged in court. This would not only delay the case further but could also invalidate the entire process.
Senator Chiz Escudero noted that adhering to the law now helps prevent confusion and conflict down the line. The aim is to deliver a final decision that cannot be questioned for legal reasons.
Maintaining Impartiality in the Senate
Senators Must Stay Neutral
Senator Chiz Escudero also reminded senators to avoid making public statements about the impeachment case before the trial begins. Since senators will act as judges in the impeachment court, expressing opinions too early could be seen as biased.
Senator Chiz Escudero encouraged all members of the Senate to remain silent about the case until the evidence is presented. This is necessary to protect the credibility of the trial and to show the public that the process is fair.
Public Trust Is at Stake
In politically charged cases like this, public confidence in the Senate is essential. If people feel that the process is biased or manipulated, it could damage trust in government institutions. Senator Chiz Escudero ’s warning is a reminder that the behavior of senators before the trial even starts can influence how the public perceives the outcome.
Voices from the Public and Civil Groups
Calls for Swift Justice
Not everyone agrees with the delay. Several civil society organizations, including Caritas Philippines, have urged the Senate to move quickly. They argue that public officials must be held accountable without unnecessary delay, especially when the issues raised involve integrity and governance.
These groups also highlight that justice should not be delayed, as it may lead to a loss of confidence in the government. The longer the case is postponed, the more room there is for public speculation and unrest.
Mixed Reactions from the Public
Ordinary citizens are also divided on the issue. Some support Senator Chiz Escudero’s approach, agreeing that the law must be followed carefully. Others, however, suspect that the delay may be politically motivated, possibly to shield Vice President Duterte from consequences.
These different perspectives show how important transparency and communication are during sensitive legal and political processes.
Political Context and Possible Consequences
Timing and Its Implications
The impeachment trial comes at a time when political alliances and ambitions are starting to shift ahead of the 2028 elections. Critics argue that delaying the trial could give some political actors more time to prepare or reposition themselves.
Although Senator Chiz Escudero has denied any political motives, some analysts say that any delay in high-profile legal matters often influences public perception and political strategies.
Potential Impact on Duterte’s Career
Should the impeachment trial result in a conviction, Vice President Duterte could be removed from office—an outcome that would reshape the country’s political landscape. This makes the trial not just a legal matter, but also a turning point in Philippine politics.
Even if Duterte is acquitted, the trial itself could affect her image and political capital moving forward.
The Senate’s Role and Responsibility
A Test of Democratic Institutions
The impeachment trial will be a major test of how democratic institutions work in the Philippines. It offers the Senate an opportunity to demonstrate integrity, independence, and commitment to the rule of law.
Escudero’s approach reflects this responsibility. By ensuring that the process is lawful and fair, the Senate reinforces its role as a guardian of democracy.
Upholding the Constitution
One of Senator Chiz Escudero’s main messages is that everyone—including public officials—must respect the Constitution. No one is above the law, and due process should apply equally to all, regardless of rank or power.
This idea is central to democratic governance and serves as a foundation for a just society.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next?
When Will the Trial Start?
The impeachment trial is expected to begin when the Senate resumes session in July 2025. Once the session opens, senators will be sworn in as impeachment judges, and trial procedures will follow.
Both sides—the prosecution and the defense—will be given the chance to present evidence and make their case. The Senate will then vote on whether to convict or acquit Vice President Duterte based on the facts and the law.
What Citizens Should Watch For
As the process unfolds, citizens should look for signs of transparency, fairness, and accountability. Watching how the Senate handles this case can help restore trust in democratic institutions—or further damage it.
People should also pay attention to how media, civil society, and public officials talk about the case. Public discourse can influence perceptions and, ultimately, the legitimacy of the outcome.
Conclusion: Justice Requires Time and Patience
Senator Chiz Escudero has made it clear that the delay in Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment trial is not meant to protect or target anyone. Senator Chiz Escudero says, a necessary step to ensure that the process is legal, fair, and credible.
While the public’s desire for swift justice is understandable, respecting constitutional procedures is equally important. The delay is not the end—it is simply a pause, one that could ultimately strengthen the foundations of justice and democracy in the Philippines.
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