For ex-SC justice, Bato's absence matters more than Jinggoy's suspension (opens original article in a new tab)

A former Supreme Court justice said Sen. Bato dela Rosa's possible fugitive status could impact the Senate's impeachment process, while Sen. Jinggoy Estrada's suspension is a separate matter.

• Former Supreme Court Justice Adolfo Azcuna stated that Sen. Bato dela Rosa's possible fugitive status could affect the Senate's full-membership rule in an impeachment trial.
• Azcuna suggested that if Dela Rosa is deemed a fugitive, he might be considered as having resigned from the legal system, potentially reducing the required votes for conviction in an impeachment.
• The ICC is investigating Dela Rosa over alleged crimes against humanity linked to the Duterte drug war, while Sen. Jinggoy Estrada's suspension is a separate issue.