MANILA, Philippines — Senator Risa Hontiveros expressed concern over the repeated delays in the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, calling on the Senate to fulfill its constitutional duty and begin proceedings without further postponement.

“Nakakabahala na ang paulit-ulit na antala sa proseso ng impeachment trial. Buwan na ang binibilang natin. Sobra-sobra na ang paghihintay ng mga Pilipino,” Hontiveros said in a statement following the latest rescheduling of the trial.

She stressed that while she supports the Senate’s legislative agenda—such as the passage of the Anti-POGO bill—these should not come at the expense of constitutional responsibilities. “We cannot postpone our constitutional obligations any longer,” she said.

Citing the Constitution, Hontiveros emphasized that the Senate is mandated to “forthwith proceed” with an impeachment trial once the Articles of Impeachment are transmitted. “Hindi ‘kapag ready na,’ hindi ‘kapag convenient,’ kundi ‘shall forthwith proceed.’ Huwag naman sana yang balewalain,” she added.

The senator also noted a previous Supreme Court ruling that recognizes the Senate as a continuing body in non-legislative functions, such as impeachment trials.

“We owe it to the Filipino people to convene as an impeachment court and begin the proceedings at the soonest possible time,” Hontiveros said, adding that the public deserves a transparent trial where the accusations against the Vice President can be thoroughly examined.

The impeachment trial stems from allegations of misuse of confidential and intelligence funds and other purported violations of the Constitution involving Vice President Duterte. Although the House of Representatives transmitted the Articles of Impeachment months ago, the Senate has yet to formally convene as an impeachment court, citing scheduling conflicts and legislative priorities.