Escudero Rejects Marcos’ Mediation on Sara Impeachment Trial
By Inday Marisol | June 16, 2025
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Senate President Says Executive Branch Should Stay Out Of Legislative Process
Manila, Philippines — Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero has formally declined an offer from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to mediate in the ongoing standoff between the Senate and the House of Representatives over the pending impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte.
Speaking to reporters on Monday, Escudero said that while the President may have good intentions, the matter is a purely legislative concern and should remain independent from executive intervention.
“With all due respect to the President, this is a constitutional process. The Senate will fulfill its role as the impeachment court without interference,” Escudero said.
Background: A Brewing Inter-Chamber Conflict
The standoff stems from disagreements between the Senate and House on trial procedures, timelines, and jurisdictional authority regarding the articles of impeachment filed against Vice President Duterte.
The House of Representatives has already transmitted the articles of impeachment, but the Senate has yet to convene as an impeachment court, citing legal inconsistencies and calls for clarification.
Marcos Urges Unity, Escudero Pushes Back
President Marcos, speaking from Malacañang earlier this week, offered to open lines of communication between the two chambers in an effort to “avoid institutional gridlock.”
But Escudero remained firm, asserting that the Constitution clearly outlines the roles of each branch.
“We appreciate the President’s concern, but the Senate must be allowed to exercise its constitutional duty without any perception of executive pressure or influence,” he added.
No Movement Yet On Sara Duterte Trial
As of today, the impeachment trial remains in limbo. Duterte’s camp has not issued new statements, while legal analysts predict the trial could be delayed for weeks unless both chambers reach a procedural agreement.
Sources
- Office of the Senate President
- Presidential Communications Office
- House of Representatives Press Bureau
- Interviews with constitutional law experts, June 2025
Maria Sollen Castor, known as “Inday Marisol,” is a skilled and experienced content writer. Renowned for her engaging and authentic style, she crafts compelling content that connects with readers and resonates across platforms.