But Trillanes says senators can only be judged once they give their verdict
By Meanne Corvera
Eagle News Service
Senators on Tuesday, April 10, vowed to vote based on evidence if the venue for the impeachment process against Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno was transferred to the Senate, but one remained skeptical.
“Sa akin, walang epekto,” Senator Nancy Binay said, when asked to comment on President Rodrigo Duterte’s call for Sereno’s impeachment to be fast-tracked in Congress.
Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque later clarified Duterte’s statement on Tuesday, April 9, was only directed to the House of Representatives.
Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon said he would also decide “on the basis of the Constitution, and the law.”
“Dapat utak korte pa rin ang Senado,” Senate President Koko Pimentel for his part said.
But for Senator Antonio Trillanes IV, the senators cannot be judged until they give their verdict in the trial, should it push through.
“Dun niyo malalaman kung matatakutin at nadidiktahan sila ng Presidenteng ito,” he said.
Sereno is also facing a quo warranto petition that seeks to have her appointment as Chief Justice nullified.