Senator Francis "Tol" Tolentino asserted that the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte can take place alongside any hearings, should the Department of Justice (DOJ) move forward with filing charges against her.

This is about the recommendation of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to file criminal charges of grave threats and inciting to sedition against Duterte for her alleged "death threat" against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Marcos, and House Speaker Martin Romualdez.

Tolentino stated that the impeachment of Duterte would lead solely to her removal from office and disqualification from running for any government position. This is distinct from being proven guilty of any criminal charges that may be filed against her.

NBI Director Jaime Santiago had previously stated that they have sufficient evidence to support their recommendation, but the decision on whether to charge Duterte now lies with the DOJ.

As Chairman of the Committee on Rules, he stated that they cannot comment on the matter as they will serve as judges and have committed to being impartial in the proceedings.

However, from his perspective, he believes that the timing is not right, as impeachment discussions are said to be destructive and divisive.

“Maraming mga usaping pang nasyonal na kailangang tugunan natin. Gaya ngayon dito sa kalakhang Maynila, pataas ‘yung kuryente, marami tayong mga bilihin na uncontrollable pa ‘yung presyo – ‘yung luya, ‘yung siling labuyo,” Tolentino said during an exclusive interview with DZRH's Dos Por Dos on Monday.

Tolentino also emphasized that he respects the statement of Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero, who suggested that the impeachment trial may take place after the State of the Nation Address (SONA) in July.

For now, he said they must await the decision of the Supreme Court on the petition for a writ of mandamus filed before the Court, which seeks to compel the Senate to convene for the impeachment trial against Duterte.