Former Senate President Franklin Drilon has expressed confidence that senators without legal backgrounds can effectively serve as judges in the impeachment court. Drilon emphasized that legal expertise is not a prerequisite for understanding their duties and adhering to the rules established by the Senate, both as a legislative body and as an impeachment court.
Drilon's Remarks on Senatorial Qualifications
Drilon made these comments in response to the controversial statement by Senator Rodante Marcoleta, who questioned Senator Risa Hontiveros' lack of legal background and its potential impact on the upcoming trial against Vice President Sara Duterte. The former Senate President argued that the design of impeachment proceedings, as well as legislative processes, does not require a law degree or legal training.
According to Drilon, even without a legal background, senators can fulfill their roles as senator-judges, both as lawmakers and as members of the impeachment court. He stressed that what matters is a willingness to learn and a commitment to their sworn duties.
Guidance and Advisors for Senator-Judges
Drilon further stated that a senator's lack of constitutional knowledge is not a significant issue, as long as they are open to learning and remain faithful to their oath. He suggested that senators can seek guidance from advisers to ensure that their actions and decisions are in line with constitutional provisions.
The former Senate President's remarks come amid debates over the qualifications of senators to serve as impartial judges in the impeachment trial, highlighting the importance of integrity and dedication over formal legal education.
