By Meanne Corvera
Eagle News Service
Preparations for what was reportedly the looming impeachment trial of Supreme Court Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno are underway in the Senate, even with the hearings to determine probable cause still ongoing in the House justice committee.
Senate Secretary Lutgardo Barbo said that several senators have already had their measurements taken for the toga they were to use during the trial in the Upper House, which is expected to convene as an impeachment court if the House panel determines there is probable cause.
Barbo said that among those who have had their measurements taken were Senate President Aquilino Pimentel III, Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon, and Senator Manny Pacquiao.
He said Senator Vicente Sotto, who is also the majority floor leader, has expressed his intent to wear the toga he used during the impeachment trial of former Chief Justice Renato Corona.
Barbo said they started making the preparations after the House of Representatives gave the assurance the Articles of Impeachment against Sereno would be transmitted the Senate possibly upon resumption of session in the second week of January.
“Pinagsabihan kami ni (Senate President Pimentel) na maghanda kayo. Pag dumating o hindi
preparado kami,” Barbo said.