Enrile says Gutierrez will not take a Leave while the Senate hears her Impeachment Case

Juan Ponce Enrile
Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile said that Gutierrez can still do her responsibilities while her impeachment trial is being heard by the Senate.

Ombudsman Merceditas Gutierrez will still be able to do her responsibilities as the Senate continues the hearing regarding her impeachment according to the statement given by Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile.

In an interview, Enrile boldly stated the lines, “No need. Constitutional office ‘yun. It is her right to appear or not to appear. She has no duty to. That is a matter of right.”

However, the secretary-general of Bayan known as Renato Reyes Jr. have encouraged Gutierrez to file a leave of absence so as the said Ombudsman will be able to concentrate on defending her stand for the on going impeachment hearing.

Reyes is considered to be one of the complainants at the said impeachment trial.

According to Secretary-General Reyes, Ombudsman Gutierrez may not function well on her duties since the Senate trial for her impeachment is still going on.

The article for impeachment was submitted to the senate leadership this day according to Enrile. The Senate justice committee will then be receiving the impeachment articles.

Enrile added that after they can arrange it to the impeachment court, a notice will immediately be sent to Gutierrez.

Enrile said further that as soon as they will be able to send and accept the summons, a limited time will then be given to Gutierrez to explain all her views about the given charges before making an opening schedule of the hearing.

Senate Secretary Emma Reyes received the resolution 105 that contained the six articles of impeachment against the Ombudsman. It was handed to her by the House Justice Committee Chairman Neil Tupas along with some congressmen.

After having a marathon debate that lasted for about eight hours, the House of Representatives finally declared that there were 212 Congressmen who voted “yes” to pursue Gutierrez impeachment.

Meanwhile, there were 4 congressmen who abstained and 46 voted “no”.

On the view of Gutierrez, the dark politics have dominated during the voting action made by the congressmen.

Gutierrez emphasized that she will make it to confidently stand in front of the Senate carrying her clear conscience.

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