By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senate President Tito Sotto said Thursday that the Senate will promptly act as an impeachment court the day after it receives the Articles of Impeachment from the House of Representatives.
Sotto stressed that the chamber will move “forthwith,” which he interpreted as taking action immediately on the following day once the documents are officially transmitted.
The clarification comes after the Supreme Court ruled on Wednesday that the term “forthwith” in impeachment proceedings means within a reasonable period, depending on the situation.
The Constitution provides that once at least one-third of House members file a verified impeachment complaint or resolution, it automatically becomes the Articles of Impeachment, triggering the Senate’s duty to proceed with trial.
Sotto also noted earlier that senators had already held a caucus to prepare for possible impeachment proceedings once the House completes transmission.
ia/xf
