Panganiban makes 'binata' quip as Hontiveros questions him

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Retired Chief Justice Artemio Panganiban on Wednesday directed a flirtatious remark at Senator Risa Hontiveros as the latter questioned him during the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte.

Panganiban was appearing at the Senate court as one of the four amici curiae invited to weigh in on the conviction threshold of the impeachment court.

During her questioning, Hontiveros said that Panganiban was free to answer questions she would be asking to the other experts.

Panganiban said that he would even entertain Hontiveros’ questions in private.

“Maski po sa pribado na conversation natin, pwede ako sumagot… dalaga naman po kayo,” the 88-year-old joked with a smile. (Even in private we can have a conversation, I can answer… after all, you are unmarried.)

Senate impeachment court Presiding Officer Chiz Escudero then jokingly asked Hontiveros: “Can you confirm?”

Hontiveros chose to laugh it off. "Ibang mga tanong pa po ang itatanong ko, Mr. Presiding Officer, sa ating mga amicus curiae," she said.

(I have other questions to ask the other amici curiae.)

“Di ko rin nasabi, binata rin ako,” Panganiban added, laughing. (I was not able to say it but I am a bachelor.)

“I’m sure marami po nagno-note niyan,” Hontiveros replied. (I’m sure plenty are taking note.)

Both Panganiban and Hontiveros are widowed. Panganiban lost his wife, Professor Elenita Carpio-Panganiban, in 2023 after 62 years of marriage, while Hontiveros, who lost her husband Francisco Baraquel Jr. in 2005, said she has a longtime partner. — BM, GMA News