Vice President Sara Duterte is not legally required to attend her impeachment trial if the House of Representatives forwards articles of impeachment against her, according to Senate President Vicente "Tito" Sotto III.
Duterte previously skipped impeachment proceedings in the House, despite multiple invitations to respond to the allegations against her.
The House committee on justice proceeded with hearings and approved the articles of impeachment without her presence.
Sotto emphasized that while the rules do not compel her attendance, it would be prudent for Duterte to participate in the Senate trial.
Yes, she should attend. It would be better to attend the trial,
Vicente Sotto III
He referenced the impeachment trial of former President Joseph Estrada, who did not attend and faced complications as a result.
In contrast, former Chief Justice Renato Corona attended his trial, which ended with his conviction and removal from office.
Sotto stated that if the articles reach the Senate, he will promptly refer them to the committee on rules.
He also proposed organizing a pre-trial process to avoid the chaos experienced during the Corona impeachment.
"A pre-trial is essential to streamline proceedings and ensure clarity," Sotto noted.