A lawyer has argued that the Senate can still serve as an impeachment court for Vice President Sara Duterte, despite the adjournment of the 19th Congress and the election period.
In an interview with Bombo Radyo, Atty. Jeremy Moreno, a law professor at the University of San Agustin College of Law, explained that impeachment proceedings are distinct from regular legislative functions.
He emphasized that impeachment hearings are non-legislative and are considered a special function of Congress.
According to Moreno, the usual rules that apply when Congress is adjourned do not apply in the case of impeachment proceedings.
He stressed that despite the adjournment, the Senate is still obligated to continue with the impeachment process as it is their duty under the law.
The impeachment complaint against Vice President Duterte has already been passed by the House of Representatives, and now it is up to the Senate to move forward with the trial.
Earlier, Senate President Chiz Escudero confirmed that the Senate would not begin the impeachment trial until it reconvenes on June 2, 2025, due to the adjournment of the Senate without discussion of the complaint.
