Possible 4th ouster raps vs Duterte may get enough votes for Senate transmittal - House official

Metro Manila, Philippines - A fourth impeachment complaint may be forthcoming in the House of Representatives against Vice President Sara Duterte, this time possibly obtaining enough votes for an immediate transmittal to the Senate for trial, said the chamber’s secretary general, Reginald Velasco, on Tuesday, Jan. 14.

If an ouster case gathers one-third signatures from House members, which is 103, it may be immediately transmitted to the Senate which will convene as an impeachment court.

“It's the first time I heard from House members na [that] they're contemplating on this fourth complaint with the endorsement of the minimum requirement,” Velasco said, noting that it may gain multi-partisan support.

If the required number for Senate transmittal is not obtained, the House justice committee will determine the form and substance of the complaints, possibly consolidate them, and if merited, send the articles of impeachment to the plenary for approval.

Velasco said agreeing on the impeachment process with the Senate is another thing.

“The Senate has its own rules and it has the power to issue a resolution or resolutions either ending the term of the 19th Congress and then ipso facto 'yun ding [by that very fact, also the] trial. If ever they reach the referral of the House of Representatives, they have to pass a resolution na [stating that], ‘We are continuing our mandate, the non-legislative mandate to continue on to the 20th Congress,’” Velasco explained.

“If the 20th Congress is convened, then they can start with the trial. Of course, that's subject to legal questions whether that can be done. Of course, the Supreme Court will be the final arbiter,” he added.

The session will adjourn on Feb. 8 and will resume on June 2 to give way for the midterm elections in May. The 19th Congress will adjourn sine die on June 14.

Duterte, who has been facing a congressional inquiry on her alleged confidential fund misuse, is facing three impeachment complaints, namely, plunder, graft and corruption, and betrayal of public trust among other grounds.