A key member of the House prosecution panel expressed disappointment Sunday over the delay in the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, while affirming that House Speaker Martin Romualdez is expected to retain his post when Congress resumes session.

Rep. Lorenz Defensor, who represents the 3rd District of Iloilo and sits on the 11-man House prosecution team, told local radio that postponing the Senate’s formal receipt of the articles of impeachment from 2 June to 11 June is a disservice to the public.

“The prosecution team is disappointed. This delay is a disservice to the Filipino people,” Defensor said in Filipino. “The sooner we start and finish the impeachment trial, the better for our country and for the Vice President.”

Under the original Senate calendar, the presentation of the articles of impeachment was slated for 2 June, while newly elected senators would take their oaths on 3 June. However, Senate President Chiz Escudero’s revised schedule moves the proceedings to 11 June — just a day before Independence Day, raising concerns about further postponement.

According to the congressman, the impeachment trial can proceed under constitutional rules regardless of the Senate’s legislative adjournments, and should extend into the 20th Congress until final judgment is rendered.

Defensor acknowledged the need to conclude priority legislative work but stressed that the impeachment of a sitting vice president is the "highest form of trial."

When asked whether the Supreme Court could intervene, Defensor emphasized that the impeachment process falls squarely under the political domain of Congress.

“The impeachment trial is a political question. The Court should not intervene unless there is a clear case of grave abuse of discretion,” he said in Filipino.

Defensor added that barring such abuse, the constitutional principle of separation of powers should prevent judicial interference.

Defensor confirmed that all seven articles of impeachment against Duterte are ready for presentation, though the panel remains open to adjustments depending on the Senate's trial calendar.

“We’re prepared to present evidence on all seven articles."

While recent surveys show mixed public sentiment, Defensor noted that the latest data suggest strong support for moving forward.

“Many still oppose the trial, and we respect that. But surveys also show that nine out of ten Filipinos want it to proceed to bring clarity,” he said. “Regardless of the outcome — acquittal or conviction —everyone should accept the decision.”

Romualdez to stay as Speaker

As for speculation about changes in House leadership, Defensor sees no indication that Speaker Martin Romualdez will be unseated.

“There’s a lot of chatter, but I’ve had no personal conversations or invitations from anyone looking to replace him,” Defensor said in Filipino. “From what I can see, Speaker Romualdez will remain in his position.”

The House of Representatives is set to reopen on Monday.