Duterte Impeachment Trial Delayed Until Post-Elections

Vice President Sara Duterte's impeachment trial is on hold until Congress reconvenes after the midterm elections, with Senate President Chiz Escudero confirming preparations are underway despite the Senate being in recess. A Supreme Court petition has been filed to compel the Senate to immediately commence the trial, citing constitutional mandates for prompt action. Legal experts are divided on whether the Supreme Court can intervene, with former Justice Conchita Carpio-Morales arguing intervention is possible in cases of grave abuse of discretion, while Franklin Drilon disagrees. In response to the delay, Senate Minority Leader Koko Pimentel has urged for immediate proceedings, emphasizing constitutional duty. The impeachment has become politically charged, influencing the senatorial election landscape and causing logistical challenges due to concurrent election preparations. Meanwhile, Duterte has petitioned the Supreme Court to dismiss her impeachment, reflecting her public dismissal of the proceedings as less painful than a romantic breakup.