Retired Chief Justice Artemio Panganiban called for active participation by senator-judges in the impeachment trial, emphasizing that their role requires more than mere attendance. Speaking during the Senate impeachment court session, Panganiban urged lawmakers to personally engage with the evidence before making decisions on officials' futures. His remarks followed an interjection by Senator-judge Joel Villanueva, which prompted Panganiban to clarify his stance. The former chief justice stressed that the process should be guided by true justice rather than political numbers. He noted that while senator-judges may frame questions from a legislative perspective, their responsibility includes ensuring the trial reflects the will of the Filipino people. Panganiban’s comments highlight ongoing debates over the balance between judicial independence and legislative oversight in the impeachment process.