CONTRARY to earlier speculation, Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero is not the preferred choice of the new Senate majority to lead the impeachment trial against Vice President Sara Duterte scheduled for next month.
Senate President Pro Tempore Sherwin Gatchalian clarified this in an interview, confirming that the name of Senator Francis Pangilinan is instead among those being seriously considered for the role of presiding officer. The selection is based on the fact that Pangilinan is a lawyer by profession, a qualification the bloc believes is essential for properly overseeing the complex legal proceedings.
Gatchalian explained that the idea of designating a lawyer‑senator to head the impeachment court follows a proposal originally put forward by former Senate President Vicente Sotto III. “You are correct, Senator Sotto mentioned that. And that is exactly what we are discussing right now,” Gatchalian said when asked whether Pangilinan was being eyed for the position. The deliberations are part of careful preparations to ensure that the process adheres to legal standards and is conducted fairly, transparently, and in accordance with Senate rules.
As part of these preparations, Gatchalian confirmed that the Senate has already begun official procedural steps. “Yes, I signed the notice for pre‑trial yesterday. So we have already sent that out both to the defense and the prosecution team,” he stated. This step formally sets the timeline in motion, requiring both sides to begin organizing their evidence, witnesses, and legal arguments ahead of the actual trial proceedings expected to commence in July.
Despite Pangilinan’s name being prominently floated, Gatchalian emphasized that no final decision has been reached yet. “No final decision has been made on who will ultimately preside over the impeachment court; the matter remains under discussion among senators as they prepare for the start of the trial next month,” he added. The majority continues to weigh options and consult members, ensuring that whoever is appointed will command respect and possess the necessary legal background to guide the historic process.
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