Senate vows impartiality in impeachment bid; Palace distances from issue

Metro Manila, Philippines – The Senate leadership has promised impartiality in proceedings should the complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte reach the impeachment court, while the Palace distanced itself from the issue.

Multi-sectoral groups filed the impeachment complaint on Monday, Dec. 2, and was endorsed by a lawmaker, marking the start of the process at the House of Representatives. Duterte gets impeached if at least one-third of the House votes in favor, and the case is referred to the Senate as the impeachment court for trial.

Impeachment is a constitutional process bestowed on Congress in which a public official is held to account for a crime or misconduct in a process that involves both political and legal elements.

In a statement on Tuesday, Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero urged colleagues to avoid public comments or statements on issues contained in the complaint.

“Should the Senate be called upon to act as an impeachment court, any perception of bias or pre-judgment would undermine not only the integrity of the impeachment trial but also the public's trust in the Senate as an institution,” Escudero said.

“While impeachment is often described as a political exercise, it is crucial that members of the Senate approach it with the impartiality and objectivity demanded of us. We must remain steadfast in upholding the principles of justice and fairness, ensuring that every step of the process adheres to the Rule of Law,” he added.

He also reminded fellow lawmakers not to let the “inherently divisive” impeachment proceedings hinder legislative work.

“While accountability mechanisms like impeachment serve an important role in a democracy, the outcome – whether in favor of or against the official involved – should not impede the Senate's broader mission to serve our countrymen,” Escudero said.

“Allowing our legislative responsibilities to be overshadowed by the political dimensions of impeachment would be a disservice to our nation,” he added.

In a separate statement, Malacanang distanced itself from efforts to oust Duterte, despite her tirades and verbal threats against President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.

“The impeachment complaint filed in the House of Representatives by several private citizens is clearly the complainants’ independent initiative, and its endorsement the prerogative of any Member of the House of Representatives. The Office of the President has nothing to do with it,” Executive Secretary Lucas P. Bersamin said.

Earlier, Marcos himself opposed calls to impeach Duterte, calling it unimportant and a waste of time.