SENATE President Pro Tempore Sherwin Gatchalian confirmed on Thursday that he will serve as presiding officer during the upcoming impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte.
Speaking to reporters, he explained that under the chamber’s rules, his position as Senate President Pro Tempore makes him the acting head of the Senate, and thus the one mandated to lead the proceedings of the impeachment court.
“Under the rules, since the Senate President Pro Tempore assumes the acting Senate President, I will preside over the impeachment trial,” he stated, adding that he will coordinate with the Senate Secretary to finalize the official schedule.
Gatchalian took on his new role following his election by the Senate during its session on Wednesday, a move that effectively installed him as the chamber’s acting leader pending the election of a permanent Senate President. He noted that with the change in leadership, procedural adjustments will be necessary when the court reconvenes. “I would have to consult with the clerk of court on what the procedures will be. But definitely once it resumes, they have to take their oath again,” he said, confirming that all senator-judges will need to renew their oath of office under his stewardship.
This development follows the impeachment court’s first convening last May 18, which was presided over by then‑Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano. During that session, Senator Camille Villar administered Cayetano’s oath, before he in turn swore in the rest of the members. The transition in leadership comes amid warnings from Cayetano regarding a potential constitutional crisis within the Senate, as different blocs assert their respective positions on the chamber’s leadership and direction.
Alongside his confirmation on the trial, Gatchalian announced that the Senate is set to resume its regular functions after a period of legislative deadlock. He clarified that as acting head, he is fully authorized to sign documents and perform all duties attached to the office of Senate President.
Meanwhile, the House of Representatives prosecution panel expressed its readiness to proceed regardless of who leads the Senate, reaffirming their commitment to the process. On the other hand, Vice President Duterte’s legal team has already filed their formal response, arguing that the articles of impeachment against her are legally flawed and should be dismissed outright.
the 18 marine are the contact of Defensor by giving sohul its very bad.