By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — The Senate impeachment court has the authority to cite lawyers, witnesses, and even spectators in contempt if they violate courtroom rules or disrupt proceedings, its spokesperson reminded the public on Thursday.
Speaking to reporters, Senate impeachment court spokesperson Reginald Tongol said the power to punish contempt extends to anyone participating in or present during the trial, provided the issue is first raised before the court.
He explained that a senator-judge or any party to the proceedings must first move for a contempt citation before the impeachment court can take action, stressing that the tribunal does not act on its own initiative in such matters.
According to Tongol, the court may impose sanctions against individuals who display disrespectful or disorderly behavior, whether they are members of the legal teams, witnesses on the stand, or persons inside the hearing venue.
He said available penalties range from a formal reprimand or warning to removal from the session hall, the imposition of fines, or even imprisonment, depending on the gravity of the offense.
Tongol noted that these sanctions are comparable to the contempt powers exercised by the Senate during legislative inquiries.
The reminder came as the Senate impeachment court continues hearing the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, who is facing allegations that include grave threats, misuse of confidential funds, bribery, and unexplained wealth.
Despite six trial days already completed, only two witnesses have testified before the impeachment court.
Under the approved trial calendar, 86 hearing days remain for the presentation of evidence and witnesses as the historic impeachment proceedings continue.
ia/xf
