‘Senate shakeup likely if impeachment blocked’

MANILA, Philippines — A deliberate move to block the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte in the Senate could trigger a change in the chamber’s leadership, former Senate president Aquilino Pimentel III said over the weekend.

Speaking to radio dzBB, Pimentel was asked about circulating rumors that some senators might file a motion to stop the trial altogether. According to him, such a move is legally flawed.

“That’s wrong, because trial shall forthwith proceed. If there would be a motion, whoever files it, that’s wrong. That person must be made aware that it is wrong,” he said.

Pimentel, a vocal advocate for constitutional adherence who fiercely pushed for a trial during last year’s impeachment crisis, stressed that the Constitution mandates the Senate to proceed with a trial once the Articles of Impeachment are transmitted.

He, however, acknowledged the political reality of the Senate wherein if a majority of the 24 senators decide to support a legally flawed motion to stop the trial, they will have to contend with incumbent Senate President Vicente Sotto III.

Pimentel expressed confidence that Sotto would oppose any attempt to derail the process.

The ensuing clash between the Senate leadership and a defiant majority, Pimentel explained, could lead to a coup.

He pointed out that the current power dynamics in the Senate make a leadership change plausible, noting the nine minority senators contending with 15 majority senators. Observers have noted that the size of this Congress’ minority is one of the largest in recent history.

Pimentel, who handed over the reins of the chamber to Sotto during the Duterte administration, believes Sotto will prioritize his place in history over his current title.

“I think he will follow what he believes in. Whatever the belief today is, if he is replaced, so be it... Being Senate President is just a position. It’s not worth crying over,” he added.

Pimentel advised the current crop of senators, many of whom are not lawyers, to heavily consult with legal experts who have actual trial experience.

He also emphasized that the current Senate impeachment rules are sufficient and “time-tested,” having successfully facilitated a conviction in the past.

Ultimately, Pimentel reminded the senator-judges that their final decision should transcend political lines and rest solely on their conscience and the evidence presented.