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The prosecution in Vice President Sara Duterte's impeachment trial has accused the defense of intentionally delaying proceedings. This comes amidst ongoing scrutiny of the trial and the roles of key figures involved.
Preparations are intensifying for the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, with the House prosecution panel naming additional lawyers and the Senate discussing a shorter trial duration. Security measures are being heightened, and there are calls for Duterte to personally explain an alleged 'assassin' threat.
Former Senate president Franklin Drilon has urged Senator Alan Peter Cayetano to accept the current Senate reorganization for the sake of the country and to elevate his constitutional grievances to the Supreme Court.
Former Senator Franklin Drilon, Senator Raffy Tulfo, and former Education Secretary Leonor Briones have denied accusations of receiving kickbacks from 'ex-Marines,' who repeated their claims and named Sotto and Tulfo.
The Philippine Senate is embroiled in a contentious debate over a proposal to implement remote voting, with the minority bloc and labor groups opposing the measure. Critics argue it could set a dangerous precedent and is being rushed to benefit certain senators facing charges, leading to a walkout during discussions.
Former Senate President Franklin Drilon stated that Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano must take full responsibility for the gunfire incident inside the Senate building, asserting that the leadership had 'lost control of the situation'.
The Commission on Audit (COA) has disallowed P73 million in confidential funds for Vice President Sara Duterte's office, leading to calls for her to return the money. A House panel is scheduled to investigate her wealth and the fund issue, while a witness named Madriaga has made claims regarding the funds and her family.
Former Senate President Franklin Drilon has warned of 'impeachment fatigue' just two weeks into the trial, urging the Senate to streamline the proceedings.
Lawmakers are warning of a potential 'second envelope' crisis during the Vice President's impeachment trial, reminiscent of a past presidential impeachment. Concerns also include the strategic implications of the President's possible absence from the proceedings.
A Blue Ribbon Committee hearing in the Philippine Senate has drawn significant controversy, with accusations of it being a 'bogus' and 'staged' event aimed at destabilization or a 'naked grab for power.' Lawmakers have criticized the proceedings, with some suggesting it was an attempt to divert attention from impeachment efforts.
Senator Franklin Drilon has urged the Supreme Court to expedite its ruling on the legality of 'unprogrammed' funds included in the national budget. He emphasized the importance of an early decision on this matter.
Philippine authorities, including the NBI and CIDG, are actively searching for former PNP chief Bato dela Rosa, who is presumed armed and dangerous, and have urged him to surrender. Senator Robin Padilla has stated that dela Rosa only hitched a ride and he was unaware of his destination, while officials warn Padilla could face obstruction charges if he is harboring the fugitive.
Multiple government agencies, including the Department of Justice and the Ombudsman, have launched investigations into a shooting incident and subsequent chaos at the Senate. Senator Bato dela Rosa is now under an immigration lookout order as authorities probe his involvement and whereabouts, amid scrutiny of security protocols and missing CCTV footage.
A first-person account reflects on the political career of Frank Drilon, noting his perceived wisdom in knowing when to step away from public life.
More private prosecutors and witnesses are expected to join the impeachment trial of Vice President Duterte, with new evidence, including undeclared firearms, being introduced. Discussions are ongoing regarding the trial's timeline, public access to pre-trial meetings, and the potential impact of senatorial detentions.
A leadership dispute in the Philippine Senate escalated on Thursday, June 4, with former Senate President Franklin Drilon stating that Senator Sherwin Gatchalian's leadership is valid unless the Supreme Court rules otherwise. Drilon also suggested that the Supreme Court's intervention is needed to resolve the ongoing row.
Former Senate President Franklin Drilon stated that the Philippine Senate can adjourn sine die without convening, following the majority bloc's refusal to open the session. The legislative calendar sets the adjournment for Friday, June 5.
Former Senate President Franklin Drilon stated that suspended Senate Sergeant-at-Arms Mao Aplasca 'exposed the chamber to danger' during a recent shooting incident in the Senate.
Former Senate President Franklin Drilon asserted that there is no legal basis for placing a senator under 'protective custody' to prevent arrest, pushing back against Senate claims.