Senator Risa Hontiveros on Friday distanced herself from recent statements made by Senate Impeachment Court spokesperson Reginald Tongol, emphasizing they do not reflect the position of the entire Senate.
“Based on his statements at a recent press conference, he (Tongol) represents only the position of the Presiding Officer. But he does not represent mine, as one of the senator-judges,” she said.
“As a deliberative body, the strength of the Senate is in its collective judgement,” Hontiveros added.
The senator also criticized what she described as a contradiction in the Presiding Officer’s position on the timing and authority of the Impeachment Court.
She said past claims that the Impeachment Court could not convene until the start of the 20th Congress were inconsistent with unilateral decisions now being made about its rules.
“Out of respect for the institution, I hope we can be more mindful of process and allow us senator-judges to decide only when we are properly convened,” she said.
Hontiveros’ remarks come amid rising tensions over internal decisions within the Senate regarding impeachment protocols.
The impeachment proceedings stem from allegations against Vice President Sara Duterte, including corruption and misuse of public funds.