Ex-SC Justices' Take on Threshold Issue Crucial in VP Duterte's Impeachment Trial

MANILA, Philippines — Both sides in Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment trial are anticipating how the retired Supreme Court (SC) justices will address the question of whether there is a need to lower the threshold needed for conviction, as it may be crucial to decide the fate of the country’s second-highest official. In a press conference, the prosecution stated that they are waiting for the retired SC justices to render their opinion on the threshold issue. “We are waiting for the opinion of the retired SC justices on the threshold issue. It is very important to us,” the prosecution said. The defense, on the other hand, said that they are also anticipating the opinion of the retired SC justices. “We are also waiting for the opinion of the retired SC justices. We believe that their opinion will be very important in deciding the case,” the defense said. The threshold issue refers to the number of votes required to convict the Vice President in an impeachment trial. Currently, a two-thirds vote of the Senate is required to convict. The prosecution is reportedly pushing for a lower threshold, arguing that a simple majority would be sufficient to convict the Vice President. The defense, however, is arguing that the current threshold should be maintained, as it is in line with the Constitution and existing laws. The retired SC justices are expected to provide their opinions on the threshold issue in the coming weeks. Their opinions will be crucial in determining the outcome of the impeachment trial and the future of Vice President Sara Duterte.