By Lane Afable, News Editor
Senator Panfilo “Ping” Lacson said the Senate may designate an impeachment manager to help guide proceedings if it convenes as an impeachment court for the case of Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio.
At the Kapihan sa Senado forum, Lacson said senators are initially considering Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan for the role because of his background as a lawyer.
“We’re planning to appoint an impeachment manager. Baka si Sen. Pangilinan as lawyer,” Lacson said.
“Mas mainam ang lawyer na sanay sa trial para more or less ma-signal si Senate President na an objection would be overruled or sustained,” he added.
Lacson said Senate Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri suggested the idea and Senate President Vicente C. Sotto III was “amenable” to it.
He said the impeachment manager would help shepherd the proceedings, similar to how the majority leader manages business on the Senate floor.
“Sabi ni Senate President, pwedeng mag-designate ng impeachment manager na senador. Parang siya mag-shepherd aside from the SP, siya ang bastonero sa floor. Parang de facto majority leader,” Lacson said.
Lacson said a possible impeachment trial may proceed without stopping the Senate’s committee hearings and regular sessions.
He said legislative work should continue, especially with priority measures still pending before the chamber.
“Ngayon may priority bills. Pag hinto mo, paralyzed ang legislative work,” Lacson said.
The proposal points to how the Senate may organize its internal procedures if it is required to sit as an impeachment court.
Lacson’s remarks also showed that senators are discussing ways to manage a possible trial while keeping the Senate’s legislative calendar moving.
The Senate has yet to convene as an impeachment court for the case.
