House Won't Rush Senate on Impeachment Trial A Deliberate Approach

Title House Won't Rush Senate on Impeachment Trial A Deliberate Approach

The House of Representatives has deliberately chosen not to pressure the Senate into hastening the impeachment trial against Vice President Sara Duterte. This decision comes after Senate President Francis Escudero announced that the trial would likely begin after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 28, 2025.

At a press conference, House Assistant Majority Leader and Taguig 2nd District Rep. Pammy Zamora explained that the House has already impeached Vice President Duterte, leaving it up to the Senate to decide when to convene as a trial court. While some legal experts advise starting the trial immediately, others suggest a different approach, she said. As far as the House is concerned, we've already impeached the vice president, and so we will leave it to the Senate to determine when they will convene to become a trial court.

Meanwhile, senatorial candidate and former Senate President Tito Sotto suggested that conflicting rules regarding impeachment might require clarification from the Supreme Court. He pointed out that the impeachment rules stipulate that the trial must continue until final judgment is rendered, regardless of whether the Senate adjourns its session or not.

Other senators have also weighed in on the matter. Administration senatorial bet Francis Tolentino believes that the Senate's impeachment rules need to be updated to reflect changes in court procedures and technology. Senatorial candidate and Makati Mayor Abby Binay, however, thinks it's premature for candidates to reveal their position on Duterte's impeachment.

Senator JV Ejercito suggested consulting legal experts on the matter, while Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel III emphasized that the Constitution requires the Senate to act on any impeachment complaint forthwith. He noted that a one-month delay is acceptable, but anything beyond three months might be in violation of the Constitution.

As the debate continues, it's clear that the House is taking a deliberate approach by not rushing the Senate into convening an impeachment trial. This decision reflects the careful consideration and respect for the constitutional process that is essential for the success of any impeachment proceedings.

The Implications

The decision to delay the start of the impeachment trial has significant implications for the political landscape in the Philippines. The move could have far-reaching consequences, not only for Vice President Duterte but also for the entire government.

As we consider these developments, it's essential to think about the potential impact on social documentary filmmakers. With the 20th Congress set to open on July 28, 2025, the stage is set for a new era of storytelling and documentation.

In this context, understanding the intricacies of impeachment proceedings can provide valuable insights into the complexities of governance and the role of institutions in shaping society. By examining the deliberate approach taken by the House, filmmakers can gain a deeper appreciation for the importance of due process and the need for careful consideration in times of crisis.

As we move forward into this new era, it's crucial to integrate these lessons into our storytelling, using themes like accountability, transparency, and the rule of law as guiding principles. By doing so, we can create compelling narratives that not only inform but also inspire audiences to demand more from their leaders and institutions.

In conclusion, the House's decision not to rush the Senate on the impeachment trial is a deliberate move that reflects respect for the constitutional process. As social documentary filmmakers, it's essential to understand these developments and consider their implications for our work in 2025.

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

Enjoy the little things in life. For one day, you may look back and realize they were the big things. Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.