SENATE President Francis “Chiz” Escudero dismissed claims that former President Rodrigo Duterte’s arrest would impact the impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte, stating that the two events are unrelated.
“These are separate incidents. I see no reason for the Senate to delay its work due to what’s happening at The Hague,” Escudero said in a Senate briefing.
The Senate is set to begin impeachment proceedings against the Vice President on June 2, a day after its session resumes.
Former President Duterte was arrested on March 11, 2025, at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 upon returning from Hong Kong with his family.
He is currently detained at The Hague, facing crimes against humanity charges before the International Criminal Court (ICC).
Escudero stressed that legal provisions do not justify delaying impeachment due to ICC proceedings or public protests.
“There is no law requiring us to postpone impeachment over ICC matters or demonstrations. Our schedule remains unchanged,” he stated.
He confirmed that the impeachment timeline remains as planned and will be finalized once the Senate resumes. The Senate will convene as an Impeachment Court on June 3, with senator judges taking their oaths.