MANILA, Philippines — Former Senator and incoming Representative Leila de Lima has sharply criticized the repeated postponements of Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment trial, labeling the delays as “laughable” and a blatant violation of the Philippine Constitution.

In a recent interview with DZMM TeleRadyo, De Lima expressed her frustration over the Senate’s inaction, stating, “Yes, yes, that’s always been my position, that is clearly violative of what the Constitution says — forthwith is forthwith. And it’s been delayed a few times already. How many times it was postponed?”

Background on the Impeachment

The House of Representatives impeached Vice President Duterte on February 5, 2025, citing multiple charges, including:

Culpable violation of the Constitution

Betrayal of public trust

Graft and corruption

Other high crimes

Specific allegations involve the misuse of confidential funds during her tenure as Education Secretary, unexplained wealth, and an alleged assassination plot against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and other top officials.

Senate’s Delays and Justifications

Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero initially scheduled the presentation of the Articles of Impeachment for June 2, 2025, with the Senate convening as an impeachment court on June 3. However, this was later rescheduled to June 11, citing the need to prioritize the passage of 12 priority bills before the current Congress adjourns on June 13.

Escudero has also indicated that the impeachment trial may be deferred to the 20th Congress, set to convene on July 28, 2025. This proposition has raised concerns about the continuity and legitimacy of the proceedings, given the change in Senate composition.

De Lima’s Constitutional Concerns

De Lima argues that the Senate’s delays contravene the constitutional mandate for the impeachment trial to proceed “forthwith.” She emphasized that the trial is not optional and that the Senate must act promptly upon receiving the Articles of Impeachment.

“The House of Representatives and the Senate cannot point fingers,” De Lima stated, highlighting the mutual responsibility of both chambers to uphold constitutional processes.

Public Reaction and Political Implications

The postponements have sparked public outcry and speculation about potential political maneuvering to protect Vice President Duterte. Critics argue that the delays undermine the integrity of the impeachment process and erode public trust in governmental institutions.

As the nation awaits further developments, the spotlight remains on the Senate’s next moves and the broader implications for the Philippines’ political landscape.

For more insights, watch the full interview with Leila de Lima on DZMM TeleRadyo: