FORMER President Rodrigo Duterte emphasized the crucial role of Senate votes in the potential impeachment case against Vice President Sara Duterte, stressing the need for his candidates to win in the upcoming elections.
The PDP-Laban official senatorial line-up includes the following:
- Atty. Jimmy Bondoc
- Sen. Bong Go
- Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa
- Cong. Rodante Marcoleta
- Pastor Apollo C. Quiboloy
- Atty. Jayvee Hinlo
- Atty. Raul Lambino
- Philip Salvador
- Atty. Vic Rodriguez
During an indignation rally in Mandaue City, Cebu, on Saturday night, Duterte explained, “The second reason why their votes in the Senate are critical is because they want to remove Inday [Sara Duterte]. It’s political.”
“Because if Marcos steps down [and he doesn’t become a dictator], there needs to be a replacement,” Duterte said. “They have no replacement if their opponent is Inday. Inday can’t be defeated… if she wins.”
“So, they want to cripple her now, that’s why there’s chaos. So, to ensure Inday’s smooth path to the Senate, because the House of Representatives is the prosecutor and the Senate is the judge,” he said.
“They will file the charges, and the Senators will listen and give their verdict,” he explained.
“So, Inday needs all of them to win to ensure she won’t be at a disadvantage in the Senate,” Duterte said.
“That’s why we’re asking you, will you make my candidates win?” he asked.
The crowd responded with a resounding “Yes!”
“It’s no problem if she steps down, but they will replace her… that’s their plan,” he further said.
On Friday, Senate President Francis Escudero rejected Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel III’s request to start Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment trial as soon as possible.
Escudero said he would have to consult with his colleagues in the chamber to see if they would be willing to start the trial.
