The Gatchalian-led bloc in the Senate is considering the possibility of selecting a new presiding officer for the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte. This comes after the camp of Acting Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian indicated they are studying the selection of another senator to lead the proceedings.
Senator Francis "Chiz" Escudero is rumored to be a potential candidate to preside over the impeachment proceedings when the Senate reconvenes as an impeachment court. According to Gatchalian, the matter has not yet been formally discussed by the majority group.
Typically, the Senate President serves as the presiding officer in impeachment trials. However, the Gatchalian faction recently approved changes to the impeachment rules that allow the majority to choose which senator will preside over the trial. Once the new rules take effect after the required publication, this change in the impeachment process can be implemented.
Under the Constitution, the Chief Justice presides only when the President of the country is on trial. For other officials, including the Vice President, the Senate has the authority to determine the presiding officer based on existing policies.
