PRESIDENT Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has addressed and dismissed concerns surrounding the planned election of Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero as presiding officer for the upcoming impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte.
Speaking to reporters in Kazan, Russia, the President clarified that the halt of Duterte’s previous impeachment proceedings last year was due solely to a Supreme Court ruling declaring the action unconstitutional, and had no connection whatsoever to Escudero or his performance. “That had nothing to do with Senator Chiz,” Marcos stressed, adding, “So in terms of his ability to be able to run the trial, I don’t think that’s in doubt.”
The plan to designate Escudero to lead the Impeachment Court was first revealed by Senator Panfilo Lacson, who stated earlier this week that members of the Senate majority have reached a preliminary agreement on the matter. According to Lacson, Escudero’s background as a lawyer combined with his familiarity and experience with the impeachment process makes him the most qualified choice to oversee the proceedings, ensure order, and guide the chamber through the complex legal and procedural aspects of the trial.
However, Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian has maintained a cautious stance, saying he prefers not to anticipate the outcome of the Senate’s official discussions on the issue. He pointed out that under existing rules, it is the Senate President who serves as the presiding officer unless the majority of the members decide otherwise. The final decision on who will preside is expected to be settled when the Senate formally convenes as an Impeachment Court on July 6, following the completion of pre‑trial requirements submitted by both the House prosecution panel and the defense team of Vice President Duterte.
