Senate Weighs Voting Rules in Duterte Impeachment Trial

The Philippine Senate continued the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte on September 16, 2026, with debate centering on whether absent senator-judges may still vote and whether a 16-vote threshold should apply. Azcuna backed the 16-vote threshold, while Panganiban urged absentee senators to inhibit themselves from the trial. Amici curiae said the Senate has the sole power to decide the case, and the prosecution echoed Puno's position that the Senate impeachment court is not under the Supreme Court. Panelo warned that lowering the impeachment threshold could invite government pressure.