Senate President Vicente "Tito" Sotto III reaffirmed that the Senate will promptly convene as an impeachment court once it receives the Articles of Impeachment against Vice President Sara Duterte, emphasizing that such action reflects the chamber’s constitutional duty and independence.

Sotto said the constitutional term “forthwith” should be interpreted as immediate action, which for him, means convening the impeachment court the day after receipt of the articles.

“If ever we do receive the articles of impeachment, we will act on it forthwith. Sa akin, forthwith the following day,” he said.

His statement comes despite clarification from the Supreme Court that the term “forthwith” in impeachment proceedings does not necessarily mean instantaneous action but still requires prompt and reasonable dispatch based on circumstances.

Sotto maintained that the High Court’s interpretation does not interfere with the Senate’s role, stressing that the legislative branch operates independently.

“It has nothing to do with the work of the Senate. We are a co-equal branch,” he added.

The Senate chief also confirmed that preparations are underway, including an all-senators caucus attended by key lawmakers, as the chamber readies for a possible impeachment trial.

He noted that Congress must be in session when the Articles of Impeachment are transmitted, with sessions resuming on May 4.

If the House of Representatives proceeds with its reported plan to transmit the articles on May 12, Sotto said the Senate could convene as an impeachment court the following day.

Meanwhile, developments in the House indicate that the impeachment process is advancing after the House Justice panel found probable cause to proceed with the impeachment complaint against Duterte.

Sotto reiterated that once formally received, the Senate will act without delay, underscoring its readiness to carry out its constitutional mandate.