Sen. Chiz Escudero says he would decline any offer to become the next vice president if Vice President Sara Duterte is removed from office through impeachment, citing a potential conflict of interest.
Escudero, the presiding officer of the Senate impeachment court, explained that accepting the position could create a conflict because he is among the senators who would serve as judges in Duterte’s impeachment trial.
He said it would be more appropriate not to accept the vice presidency while participating in the proceedings.
Escudero clarified that no one has offered him the position. He also expressed hope that the situation would not reach a point where he would have to formally reject such an offer.
Meanwhile, Malacañang has previously said that the administration has no plans or ongoing discussions about who would replace Duterte if she were removed from office.
Duterte’s political future depends on the outcome of the impeachment proceedings. If the Senate convicts and removes her, constitutional provisions on succession would become relevant in determining the next steps.
Escudero’s statement does not mean Duterte has been removed or that a successor has been selected. The vice presidency remains occupied while the impeachment process continues.
