Manila: House prosecutor and Senior Deputy Majority Leader Lorenz Defensor of Iloilo expressed optimism on Tuesday about the potential for a conviction in the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Z. Duterte. He believes that if senator-judges thoroughly evaluate the evidence presented, the prosecution can secure the necessary two-thirds vote, even amidst the current political tensions in the Senate.
According to Philippines News Agency, Defensor shared in a televised interview that the presentation of evidence before the Senate impeachment court could significantly influence voting patterns. He drew parallels with the House proceedings, where support for impeachment grew as the hearings progressed and evidence was revealed.
Defensor recalled the initial uncertainty among lawmakers regarding support for impeachment before the House Committee on Justice began its hearings. Some members were hesitant to pursue the impeachment without new evidence. However, the dynamic changed once the evidence and testimonies were laid out during the committee hearings. Defensor noted that this process strengthened the resolve of many House members to vote in favor of impeachment, especially given Duterte's refusal to respond directly to the allegations.
He emphasized that the impeachment process is both legal and political, with public opinion playing a crucial role. Defensor cited recent OCTA Research survey results showing increased public support for continuing the impeachment trial, with support rising from 69 percent in the first quarter to 74 percent in the second.
Defensor also mentioned the political realities of the Senate, acknowledging the influence of the new majority of senators aligned with the Dutertes. However, he stressed that senators would be judged by the public based on their conduct during the proceedings, which could impact their re-election prospects.
For a conviction, the prosecution needs at least two-thirds, or 16 votes, from the 24 senator-judges. The impeachment trial is anticipated to begin in July, following pretrial proceedings conducted by the impeachment court.
