Senator Estrada: Issue on my role as senator-judge in VP impeachment not yet settled

Senator Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada has rejected claims that he is automatically barred from taking part as a senator-judge in the upcoming impeachment trial, insisting that the legal questions surrounding his suspension have not yet been finally resolved.

In a statement, Estrada expressed concern over what he described as premature declarations from some individuals who have publicly stated that he can no longer sit in or participate in the impeachment proceedings.

“The issue is far from settled,” Estrada said, emphasizing that the case involving his suspension pendente lite or suspension while a case is pending remains ongoing in court.

He added that he has yet to submit his formal comment and opposition as required and intends to pursue all available legal remedies before the matter is conclusively resolved.

“Until a final and binding ruling is rendered, any assertion that I have been stripped of my authority to discharge my constitutional duties as a senator-judge is premature, baseless, and undermines the integrity of the impeachment process itself,” he said.

Estrada also took issue with what he called “self-proclaimed legal experts” who, according to him, are attempting to shape public perception rather than allow judicial processes to take their course.

He stressed that legal disputes must be resolved through proper institutions and due process, not through speculation or partisan commentary presented as settled fact.

The senator also reminded the public that he has prior experience serving as a senator-judge in an impeachment trial, saying he is fully aware of the rules, procedures, and responsibilities involved in such proceedings.

“Nakalimutan din yata ng ilan na minsan na rin akong nagsilbi bilang senator-judge sa isang impeachment trial. Batid ko ang mga umiiral na tuntunin, proseso, at responsibilidad na kaakibat ng paglilitis sa isang impeachable official,” he said.

Estrada reiterated his respect for the judiciary and legal institutions, urging restraint from those who attempt to pre-judge legal outcomes.

He said he will continue to assert his rights through legal means while fulfilling his duties under the Constitution and existing laws.

-Paraluman News