Senator Francis Tolentino on Monday, June 2, urged the Senate to dismiss the impeachment case against Vice President Sara Duterte, citing constitutional and procedural constraints.
Tolentino noted that the Articles of Impeachment were transmitted to the Senate 117 days ago, yet the trial is only scheduled to begin on June 11, 2025—just two days before the 19th Congress adjourns sine die.
He pointed to Article XI, Section 3(6) of the 1987 Constitution, which states that the Senate must proceed to trial “forthwith.”
“The command of the Constitution is clear. ‘Forthwith’ is not a suggestion. It is a legal imperative,” the senator said during his manifestation.
Tolentino also cited Supreme Court rulings (Neri v. Senate, Balag v. Senate) and Senate rules stating that Congress is not a continuing body. He argued that the Senate’s jurisdiction over the case ends at noon on June 30, 2025, and cannot be transferred to the next Congress without violating the Constitution.
Referencing Jefferson’s Manual, he added that unfinished business in one Congress does not carry over to the next.
“Kahit anong pilit, hindi maitatawid -lalo na’t kung lalabag sa Saligang Batas,” the abogado said, warning that extending the trial would be unconstitutional.
Tolentino concluded by calling for the functional dismissal of the case, urging the Senate to uphold constitutional order and institutional integrity.
His full manifestation will be entered into the official records of the Senate sitting as an Impeachment Court.IMT
