By Meanne Corvera
Eagle News Service
Detained Senator Leila de Lima will ask a court that she be allowed to attend impeachment proceedings against Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno in the Senate if the House justice panel votes there is probable cause for lawyer Larry Gadon’s complaint.
“I am certain that the Senate President, as a leading member of the ruling party, is quite aware that it is absolutely critical that members of the minority, such as myself, are allowed to genuinely and effectively participate in such a sensitive and potentially game-changing event in our nation’s history,” De Lima said.
“I, therefore, hope for and anticipate the Senate President’s and the rest of my colleagues’ support for my participation therein, if and when the time comes,” she added.
Senate President Aquilino Pimentel III said De Lima was welcome to attend the proceedings.
In fact, he said a robe has also been tailored for her.
“Kailangan physically present ka para bumoto. Basta mahanap niya ng paraan, walang problema,” he said.
The House justice panel is slated to vote on whether there is probable cause for the impeachment complaint filed by Gadon against Sereno on Thursday.