TWO House Representatives have voiced strong support for a Supreme Court petition demanding the immediate convening of the Senate as an impeachment court to try Vice President Sara Duterte. The petition, filed earlier this week, seeks to compel the Senate to begin proceedings without delay.
Rider Party-list Representative Rodge L. Gutierrez and Lanao del Sur 1st District Representative Zia Alonto Adiong held a press conference Monday to express their approval of the petition. They emphasized the importance of a swift resolution to the impeachment proceedings.
“I believe, along with other legal experts, that the Constitution’s ‘forthwith’ provision means immediate action,” Representative Gutierrez stated. The “forthwith” clause refers to the constitutional mandate for the Senate to convene as an impeachment court without unnecessary delay.
The lawmakers did not explicitly comment on the merits of the impeachment case itself, focusing instead on the procedural aspect of the Senate’s obligation to act promptly. Their statement underscores growing pressure on the Senate to address the impeachment petition and begin the trial. The petition before the Supreme Court argues that the Senate’s inaction constitutes a violation of the Constitution.
The press conference comes amidst ongoing debate surrounding the impeachment proceedings. Supporters of the petition argue that the delay is undermining public trust and delaying accountability. Opponents, however, maintain that the Senate has the right to determine its own schedule and procedures.
The Supreme Court’s decision on the petition is expected to have significant implications for the impeachment process and the political landscape of the Philippines.
The outcome will determine whether the Senate will be compelled to convene immediately or if the current delay will continue. The nation awaits the Court’s ruling with bated breath.
