In a striking scene during the resumption of the 19th Congress on Monday, June 2, Senator Risa Hontiveros delivered a privilege speech criticizing the postponement of the impeachment proceedings, only to be seemingly snubbed by Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero himself.
Hontiveros took to the Senate floor to express her frustration over the June 11 deferral of the impeachment hearings. The schedule, initially set by Escudero himself, was widely expected to proceed without interruption. In her speech, Hontiveros emphasized the constitutional responsibility of the Senate to act swiftly.
“The 1987 Constitution demands the Senate to continue with the impeachment proceedings already initiated without further delay,” Hontiveros firmly stated. “It is a clear and non-negotiable mandate.”
Before beginning her address, Hontiveros courteously asked Escudero for permission to speak on the sensitive matter. The Senate President replied, “Yes, you may!”—a seemingly supportive gesture. However, as Hontiveros began her remarks, Escudero stood up and walked away from his seat as presiding officer, an act that many perceived as a silent protest or disregard.
Despite the apparent walkout, Hontiveros continued her speech undeterred, calling on her fellow lawmakers to fulfill their duty to the people. “We will be judged by the nation if we do not act,” she declared.
Escudero returned to his seat only after Hontiveros had concluded her speech. The timing of his departure and return did not go unnoticed by viewers and political observers.
On social media, Escudero’s actions drew swift backlash. Netizens criticized the Senate President for what many saw as disrespectful behavior toward a fellow senator and toward the process of accountability itself. Several users called his move “disappointing” and “unbecoming of a leader.”
May naaamoy akong malansa kay Chiz, lahat ng galaw niya sa senado puro pabor kay Shiminet.. 🙄Ang sarap bunutan ng kilay..🤬🤬 pic.twitter.com/3gxCJ2Vs23
— Juan dela Cruz 🎗🇵🇭 (@jojotorres1954) June 2, 2025
The incident has sparked renewed debate over the handling of impeachment proceedings and the role of the Senate leadership in upholding transparency and constitutional duty. As of this writing, Escudero has not issued a statement explaining his decision to leave the chamber during Hontiveros’ speech.
When your colleagues are talking you need to listen chiz ! pic.twitter.com/Y9ujEwuQFG
— 🇵🇭 Laitera🇵🇭 (@laiteranidaddy) June 2, 2025
Observers are now watching closely to see how the Senate proceeds in the coming days—and whether the impeachment process will regain the urgency many believe it deserves.
Dati, bilib aq kay Chiz, ngaun prang iba na takbo ng utak nya. I believe he was influenced. He has no backbone.