Senator-judge Erwin Tulfo on Monday urged his fellow senator-judges to refrain from using the impeachment court as a venue to discuss their personal legal concerns, stressing that the proceedings should remain focused on the case against Vice President Sara Duterte.

Tulfo made the remark after Senator Robin Padilla delivered a manifestation addressing Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla’s statement that he had failed to answer a complaint over his alleged role in the escape of Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa.

“This is not the right forum and the right venue, and not the right time to explain your situation,” Tulfo said.

He stressed that the time of the impeachment court should be dedicated to the evidence and issues related to the charges against Duterte, warning that delays could affect the fairness of the proceedings.

“Because every minute, every hour that we waste away from the defense or from the prosecution of the case of the Vice President, it is injustice to the Vice President, to her family,” Tulfo added.

Padilla earlier clarified that while he does not recognize the jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court (ICC), he respects the authority of the Ombudsman. He also said he had submitted his counter-affidavit in response to the complaint.

On the seventh day of the impeachment trial, the Senate impeachment court is set to decide whether to approve the House prosecution panel’s request to subpoena Vice President Sara Duterte’s financial and tax records, as well as documents from the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC), a move that could become a key turning point in the proceedings.