MANILA, Philippines — Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero has pushed back against mounting calls for him to inhibit from presiding over the upcoming impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, saying that fairness is not measured by taking sides but by upholding due process.
Speaking to reporters during the unveiling of the Senate Legacy Wall, Escudero addressed criticisms from student groups and other detractors who have questioned his impartiality, asserting, “If their definition of fairness is getting me to take their side, then that’s not fairness. Being fair means applying the rule evenly to everyone—regardless of who it is.”
Asked whether he would recuse himself from the proceedings, Escudero firmly replied, “I do not consider it a necessity nor do I consider it fair.” He also rejected arguments that stepping aside would help restore trust in the Senate, especially given the politically charged nature of the impeachment.
The statement came shortly after student leaders from 24 colleges and universities sent a letter urging Escudero to inhibit from the trial. The signatories, which included representatives from the University of the Philippines, Ateneo de Manila University, and De La Salle University, criticized the Senate’s handling of the impeachment case, alleging delay and bias.
Milo Basuel, spokesperson for the student coalition Samahan ng Progresibong Kabataan (SPARK), stated, “If the Senate under Escudero still wishes to maintain its mandate to try this case without fear or favor, then the Senate president himself must take unprecedented action and recuse himself.”
Despite these appeals, Escudero stressed that the Senate will proceed according to legal and procedural requirements, not public pressure. “Just because they want it done quick, we’ll have it rushed? We will do it in accordance with the process,” he said.
Escudero also confirmed his intent to commence the impeachment trial on August 4, pending formal approval from his fellow senators and proper notification of all involved parties. However, he cautioned that any assumption that the trial is guaranteed to proceed without delay would be premature. “A trial will proceed only as dictated by law,” he noted.
As for questions raised by some senators regarding the court’s jurisdiction, Escudero acknowledged the debate but maintained that he personally supports holding a trial. “The position of the majority in the Senate might turn out to be different if it’s subjected to a vote,” he added, reaffirming the Senate’s role as a deliberative body.
Meanwhile, the Senate impeachment court has taken procedural steps to ensure compliance with constitutional requirements. It recently requested the House of Representatives to certify that the one-year ban on filing multiple impeachment cases has not been violated and to confirm the 20th Congress’ commitment to take up the case.
The House has submitted a certification of compliance but clarified that any official commitment from the 20th Congress can only be secured after the legislative session resumes on July 28.
Until then, no formal court proceedings are expected to take place, according to Escudero and impeachment court spokesperson Reginald Tongol.
