Even Sara's senator-allies must weigh these charges

Senator Bato dela Rosa is sure of exoneration for impeached VP Sara Duterte. He told reporters why last May 23rd: "I am confident na maa-acquit [siya] dahil nakikita ko na yung ibang alam natin na hindi namin kaalyado ay nagbabago na yung stand. The numbers are growing as far as our side is concerned."

- JARIUS BONDOC

Nine of 24 senators are needed to clear Sara. Asked if they have the votes, Dela Rosa beamed: "Baka sobra pa."

Twice, Dec. 3rd and May 15th, Senate President Chiz Escudero has restrained members from commenting. Impeachment is a political decision of judicial issues. As with court magistrates, opinionating is forbidden. Violators face recusal.

Yet four other pro-Sara senators have opined:

• Robin Padilla, Jan. 13th, Iglesia Ni Cristo rally, "Definitely no to impeachment."

• Imee Marcos, Feb 6th and 18th, "Ayoko ng impeachment, ayoko ng destabilisasyon, ayoko ng revolutionary government, ayoko ng resignation, ayoko ng gulo. Impeachment ba at destabilisasyon ang solusyon? Hindi ito ang sagot sa mga hamon na ating kinakaharap. Nakakahiya!"

• Jinggoy Estrada, May 20th, "Hindi ako sang-ayon sa pagsasagawa ng impeachment trial dahil magdudulot lamang ito ng pagkakawatak-watak nating mga Filipino."

• Then-Rep. now senator-elect Rodante Marcoleta, Dec. 8th, "Subukan niyong impeach ang VP, I will suggest to her that she should engage me as her defense counsel."