The impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte will continue despite a petition filed with the Supreme Court (SC) seeking to halt proceedings until the authority of Senator Francis 'Chiz' Escudero to preside over the trial is resolved.

Trial spokesperson Regie Tongol clarified that while any individual may raise issues with the SC, the impeachment court will vote collectively as a collegial body if a temporary restraining order (TRO) is issued.

Lawyers led by Israelito Torreon filed an urgent motion requesting a status quo ante order to pause the trial until Escudero's authority is settled, emphasizing the need for the trial to proceed under valid rules and a constitutionally valid presiding officer.

Tongol confirmed the trial will continue as no TRO or status quo ante order has been issued, adding that the Senate will respect the sub judice rule and the impeachment court will avoid further commentary.The trial, now in its second day, will resume on Wednesday.

The case highlights ongoing legal and procedural challenges in the impeachment process, with tensions between the judiciary and legislative branches over procedural legitimacy.