MANILA — A coalition of civil society organizations, mass groups, and concerned individuals has raised concern over a reported plan by a new Senate majority to designate Sen. Francis “Chiz” Escudero as presiding officer of the impeachment court in the case involving twice-impeached Vice President Sara Duterte.

In a joint statement, the groups said they recognize the political considerations behind the reported move but warned that it could undermine public trust in the Senate.

“In a Senate composed of imperfect options, we recognize the tactical considerations that may have informed this plan. But among the available options, this is perhaps the most imperfect and one of the most dangerous. At a time when the Senate must restore public confidence in its independence and credibility, elevating Escudero to this crucial role risks achieving the opposite.”

The groups also pointed to Escudero’s previous role in impeachment proceedings, saying his interpretation of the constitutional requirement to proceed “forthwith” contributed to delays in the process.

“This plan inevitably recalls Escudero’s conduct during the previous impeachment proceedings, where his twisted interpretation of the constitutional directive to proceed “forthwith” became the basis for the delay and deferment of the impeachment process.”

They added that legal expertise alone is not enough to ensure impartiality in an impeachment trial.

“The argument that Escudero is best suited for the role because of his legal background is unconvincing. Legal knowledge alone does not guarantee fairness, impartiality, or fidelity to the spirit of the Constitution. An impeachment trial is not merely a legal exercise; it is a constitutional and political process that demands public trust in the neutrality of those who oversee it.”

The statement further emphasized that the impeachment trial is a crucial test of the Senate’s credibility and democratic accountability.

“The impeachment trial is a defining test for the Senate and for Philippine democracy. It must demonstrate that no public official is above the law and that constitutional accountability cannot be defeated through procedural maneuvering. The Senate owes the Filipino people a process that is fair, credible, and beyond suspicion.”

The groups added that, with the question of Senate leadership already settled, they are urging the new majority to reconsider the plan and instead allow Senate President Win Gatchalian to preside over the proceedings.

“With the issue of the legitimacy of the senate presidency settled, we hope the new senate majority reconsiders and instead let Senate President Win Gatchalian lead as presiding judge and shepherd the impeachment trial to its just conclusion.”

The statement was signed by multiple civil society organizations, including 1Sambayan, Alyansa Tigil Mina, August Twenty One Movement, Student Council Alliance of the Philippines, Youth Against Kurakot, and others, along with individuals such as Fr. Flavie Villanueva, SVD, and other concerned signatories.