Senator-judge Panfilo Lacson expressed hope that the voting threshold required to convict Vice President Sara Duterte in her impeachment trial would be resolved early to prevent complications later.

He welcomed any legal challenge questioning the 16-vote requirement, emphasizing that clarity on the threshold should be established before deliberations.

Senate President Francis Escudero confirmed the 1987 Constitution mandates 16 affirmative votes (two-thirds of 24 senators) for conviction, framing his ruling as a formal court decision.Lacson supported Escudero's interpretation, citing legal consultations that affirmed the threshold remains 16 votes regardless of participation.

Former Supreme Court Justice Adolfo Azcuna, however, argued against immediate court intervention, stating the issue is a procedural stance by the chair and can be appealed internally.

The debate highlights tensions over procedural clarity in the high-profile impeachment case, with legal experts and senators navigating constitutional interpretations to ensure fair proceedings.