Lead Public Prosecutor and Batangas 2nd District Representative Gerville Luistro clarified that she recognized the leadership of acting Senate President Sherwin “Win” Gatchalian, as the House of Representatives already recognized the new Senate leadership under him.

However, she also believes that it would be better to have a duly elected Senate President amidst the impending impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte.

“I hope magkaroon na ng duly elected Senate President,” she said

Luistro also stated that they will welcome whoever is seated as an official presiding officer.

“If it is acting SP Win Gatchalian, well, we will welcome that. If it will be someone else, we will welcome that because that is the judgment and prerogative of the members of the Senate,”

Eventually, the Senate must be in session to elect an official Senate President, but both Senate and the House of Representatives are currently adjourned. While there are reports regarding the possibility of a special session, no formal request has been made yet.

Meanwhile, Luistro also reported that their witnesses to present in the trial increased from 25 to 30, and that included reserved witnesses. 

With reports from Rosalie Coz