Senators Pitch Schedule Adjustment for Impeachment Trial Amid Traffic Concerns

Senators in the Philippines have proposed adjusting the start time of an ongoing impeachment trial, citing concerns over traffic congestion. This highlights the impact of severe traffic issues in Metro Manila on the ability of lawmakers to perform their official duties. Senator-Judge Juan Miguel Zubiri stated that a majority of his colleagues have requested a shift from the current 10 a.m. start time to 10:30 a.m. This adjustment would push the trial's conclusion to 3:30 p.m. instead of 3 p.m., with a subsequent session commencing at 4 p.m. Zubiri explained that this change is intended to accommodate senators like Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano, whose commute from Bicutan is significantly affected by morning traffic. The proposal is seen as a practical measure to account for travel times. Senator-Judge Lito Lapid has also suggested an alternative schedule, aiming to conclude the trial by 2:30 p.m. to allow for a 3 p.m. session start, according to Senate impeachment court presiding officer Senator-Judge Francis “Chiz” Escudero. However, Senator-Judge Panfilo “Ping” Lacson expressed a preference for adhering to the original 10 a.m. schedule and suggested that the matter be settled in a caucus. Escudero confirmed that the trial will resume next Monday, August 3, at 10 a.m., with the schedule to be finalized based on the caucus discussions. On Wednesday morning, only 14 senators were present when the session began. This marks the first time the impeachment court has convened in the morning, having previously started its proceedings at 2 p.m. for three weeks since July 6. The proposal underscores the challenges posed by the country's urban traffic infrastructure and its effect on public institutions. Source: GMA News Philippines