A resolution has allegedly been filed in the Senate calling for the dismissal of the impeachment case against Vice President Sara Duterte.
Allegedly introduced by a group of senators, the resolution seeks to “de facto” dismiss the impeachment case “by operation of the 1987 Constitution.”
Senate Minority Leader Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III, who has been urging the Senate to act on the complaint, said the supposed resolution has yet to reach his office.
“Not yet encountered. Never seen yet. Give me time to read it,” Pimentel told reporters in a text message.
Earlier, Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero moved the presentation of the Articles of Impeachment to 11 June — the last day of session for the 19th Congress, based on the approved legislative calendar. While Congress is officially set to adjourn on 13 June, both the Senate and House of Representatives hold sessions only from Monday to Wednesday.
Originally set for 2 June 2025, the presentation of the Articles of Impeachment is a necessary first step to initiate the impeachment proceedings in the Senate.
Once presented in plenary, the Senate can constitute itself as an impeachment court and conduct the trial of the Vice President.
Duterte was impeached by the House of Representatives on 5 February, with a total of 215 lawmakers — or more than two-thirds of the members — supporting the motion.
Her conviction, which would remove her from office and bar her from holding future public positions, is currently pending in the Senate.
For Duterte to be convicted, the Senate — acting as the impeachment court — must secure a two-thirds vote, or at least 16 out of its 24 members.
Senator Imee Marcos on Wednesday confirmed to Senate reporters that several draft resolutions are circulating, all seeking to dismiss the articles of impeachment against Vice President Sara Duterte.
"There are many versions, all aiming to find the most effective and legally sound solution, one without any loopholes."
This is a developing story.