Sen. Panfilo Lacson on Wednesday said the Senate majority bloc has reached a consensus to elect Sen. Francis “Chiz” Escudero as presiding officer of the impeachment court when it convenes on July 6.
In a chance interview, Lacson said the decision was based on the view that a lawyer with prior experience in impeachment proceedings would be best suited to preside over the trial and ensure orderly proceedings.
“As per our consensus this morning, we will elect Sen. Chiz if we convene as an impeachment court,” Lacson said.
He explained that the preference for Escudero was driven by practical considerations rather than political arrangements, noting that the presiding officer must be able to immediately rule on procedural motions during trial.
“Lawyer at may experience na rin siya sa impeachment… kailangan may basic knowledge sa law dahil once may mag-motion, may pagkakataon kailangan mag-rule ka immediately,” he said.
Lacson dismissed suggestions that the move was linked to political deals or alignments within the Senate majority bloc, saying the proposal was internally agreed upon to facilitate a smoother impeachment process.
He added that while the consensus was formed during a recent meeting, it remains subject to change as the impeachment court formally convenes.
Lacson also said the majority bloc is prepared to respond if the matter is elevated to the Supreme Court, particularly in relation to a petition questioning the June 3 plenary session and amendments to impeachment rules that allow the election of a presiding officer other than the Senate President.
The impeachment court is set to open proceedings on July 6, marking the formal start of trial deliberations.