Senator Erwin Tulfo has issued a stark warning against any senators attempting to orchestrate a coup to prevent Vice President Sara Duterte's impeachment trial. He stated that such actions would not go unnoticed by the public.
Tulfo clarified that neither he nor Senator Raffy Tulfo has been approached to support any efforts to remove Senate President Vicente Sotto III.
Senator Win Gatchalian echoed this sentiment, asserting that he is unaware of any threats to Sotto's leadership.
Sotto is expected to preside over the impeachment court when it convenes to hear the case against Duterte, contingent on the House of Representatives voting to transmit the articles of impeachment.
Constitutional Obligation to Proceed
The House is set to cast its vote today, requiring at least 106 votes to move the impeachment articles to the Senate. Tulfo stressed the importance of allowing the Vice President her day in court, noting public interest in hearing her perspective.
I think we should proceed to the trial so that you have a day in court. Some surveys show that the people are waiting. They wanted to hear Duterte's side.
Senator Erwin Tulfo
He warned that if coup rumors circulate, those behind such moves would ultimately reveal their true motives.
Senator Robinhood Padilla, aligned with Duterte, has previously stated his opposition to the Senate's convening as an impeachment court.
In response, Gatchalian reaffirmed the Senate's duty to act, emphasizing that convening the court is not a matter of choice but a constitutional responsibility.
It's very clear in the Constitution: the Senate should try it forthwith. This is part of the process and accountability mechanism.
Senator Win Gatchalian
Gatchalian is already preparing for the trial and has engaged with legal counsel to review the extensive evidence compiled against Duterte.