Senators Want SC to Rule on Impeachment Vote Threshold for VP Duterte

Several senators in the Philippines have expressed their desire for the Supreme Court (SC) to settle the matter of the threshold vote required to convict Vice President Sara Duterte in her impeachment case. The issue was raised by Senator Erwin Tulfo, who questioned the feasibility of reaching the 16-vote threshold given the inconsistent attendance of some senators in the trial proceedings. Senator JV Ejercito suggested that it would simplify matters for the Senate if the SC were to intervene, stating, “Me, I would prefer it if it is with the Supreme Court so that we do not have a hard time.” However, he noted that the final decision would depend on discussions within the impeachment court on September 23. On September 23, the Senate impeachment court is scheduled to hold a hearing with amici curiae, or "friends of the court," to consult experts regarding the threshold requirement. Senator Raffy Tulfo also voiced his preference for the SC to resolve the issue, saying, “If it were me, for myself, we could raise it to the Supreme Court to have it done; let the Supreme Court decide. So that we could be done.” Meanwhile, Senate President Sherwin “Win” Gatchalian refrained from disclosing his personal views, emphasizing the importance of awaiting the discussions with the amici curiae and learning from constitutional experts. Senator Erwin Tulfo clarified that his intention was not to lower the threshold but to seek clarity on the matter. This is particularly relevant as the impeachment trial is expected to conclude sooner after the prosecution withdrew 15 witnesses and opted for Duterte herself to attend the trial. He suggested including constitutional convenors and possibly former Chief Justices and Associate Justices in the consultations. Information Source: GMA News Philippines