Suit vs. Senators During VP Trial Just 'Wrong Timing,' Says Ex-Lawmaker

MANILA, Philippines — Filing criminal cases against some senators during Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment proceedings may be just a case of “wrong timing, ” not manipulation to gather the votes needed to convict her, says former Rep. Robert Ace Barbers on Friday. In an online news conference, Barbers made the distinction when asked whether the lawsuits filed against senators were part of a political maneuver to gather the votes needed to convict the Vice President. According to Barbers, the filing of cases against the senators was not intended to influence the outcome of the impeachment trial but rather a matter of poor timing on the part of the complainants. His remarks come amid heightened political tensions in the Philippines, sparking discussions on how legal proceedings surrounding the impeachment process might be intertwined with political motives. The impeachment proceedings against the Vice President could significantly impact the country's political stability and the balance of power. The filing of cases against senators in this context raises various speculations about its true intent and implications, while also drawing public attention to the political landscape.