Senate won't seek lifting of Estrada’s suspension, says Gatchalian

MANILA, Philippines – The Senate will not request the lifting of detained Sen. Jinggoy Estrada’s court-imposed preventive suspension, Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian said on Thursday.

The Sandiganbayan recently ordered a 90-day preventive suspension against Estrada, who faces graft and plunder charges in relation to the flood control scandal.

“We cannot file to Sandigan kasi (because) we’re not a party of interest,” Gatchalian pointed out.

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READ: Court orders Jinggoy Estrada suspended for 90 days

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With Estrada’s absence, the number needed to convict Vice President Sara Duterte in her impeachment trial is unclear.

Looming discussions raise the possibility of lowering the required number to convict the vice president, but Gatchalian reiterated that he will follow the Constitution that requires 16 votes regardless of how many senator-judges are present.

Earlier, Sen. Panfilo Lacson said Estrada may file a motion and seek leave of court to attend Duterte’s impeachment trial, escorted by Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) personnel.

Meanwhile, Sen. Risa Hontiveros told the media that the Senate, as an impeachment court, has yet to discuss the matter. /gsg

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