SENATOR Risa Hontiveros has expressed serious concern over the repeated delays in the impeachment trial against Vice President Duterte, stating that the prolonged postponement is unacceptable and violates the Constitution.
Senator Hontiveros acknowledged the urgency of passing important legislation, including the Anti-POGO bill, during the final days of the 19th Congress. However, she emphasized that constitutional obligations must take precedence.
She pointed out that the Constitution explicitly mandates that the Senate “shall forthwith proceed” with an impeachment trial, rejecting any justification for delay based on preparedness or convenience.
The Senator further cited a Supreme Court ruling establishing the Senate as a continuing body for non-legislative functions, including its role as an impeachment court. She argued that continued delays constitute a clear violation of this constitutional mandate.
Senator Hontiveros stressed the importance of convening the impeachment court immediately to ensure transparency and allow for a thorough examination of the accusations against the Vice President.
She asserted that the Filipino people have a right to know and understand the allegations through a transparent trial process, and urged the Senate to address this matter without further delay.
