Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian on Thursday admitted feeling hurt by online memes circulating about his presence beside presiding officer Francis Escudero during the impeachment trial, but said he remains focused on his responsibilities.

In an interview on DZRH’s Dos Por Dos, Gatchalian said negative comments on social media affect him personally, but he accepts them as part of public service.

“Syempre nasasaktan, tao lang naman tayo, na-ooffend, na-iinsulto, nasasaktan. Pero ganun talaga ang social media,” he said.

Gatchalian clarified that under Senate rules, he is required to remain involved in the proceedings despite Escudero serving as presiding officer in the impeachment trial of Sara Duterte.

He explained that the Senate president retains general supervision over impeachment proceedings, ensuring that sessions are conducted in an orderly manner.

“Under our rules, ang senate president ay nananatiling merong general supervision over the impeachment proceedings,” he said.

Gatchalian added that he regularly coordinates with Escudero on matters related to the trial to maintain order and efficiency.

He also noted that certain powers remain with the Senate president during impeachment, including authority over the Senate Sergeant-at-Arms, who may be directed to address any disruptions during proceedings.

Asked if he would remain at the podium alongside Escudero until the end of the trial, Gatchalian replied in the affirmative.

“Yes,” he said.

The Senate concluded the sixth day of impeachment trial proceedings on Wednesday and is set to resume the trial on Monday, July 20.