Senate Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano has appealed for detained senators Jinggoy Estrada and Rodante Marcoleta to be allowed to attend the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte.
Speaking during his “Kontra-SONA,” Cayetano said the two senators should be given the opportunity to perform their duties as members of the Senate by participating in the impeachment proceedings.
He said their attendance would allow them to fulfill their responsibilities as elected lawmakers during the trial.
Cayetano also said the implementation of justice in the country should be examined to determine whether it is being carried out fairly and equally.
His appeal came after the Sandiganbayan denied Estrada’s request to attend the impeachment trial.
Marcoleta, meanwhile, appealed to the Senate impeachment court to find a way for both detained senators to participate in the proceedings.
The impeachment trial involves Vice President Sara Duterte, with the Senate serving as the impeachment court.
Cayetano’s statement adds to the ongoing discussion over the participation of detained lawmakers in Senate proceedings, particularly in impeachment cases.
The Sandiganbayan’s earlier ruling prevented Estrada from attending the trial, while Marcoleta separately urged the impeachment court to consider arrangements that would enable their participation.
No further details were provided regarding whether the Senate impeachment court would act on Marcoleta’s appeal or whether additional motions would be filed concerning the request.
