DEPUTY Speaker Janette Garin of Iloilo on Friday urged public officials to exercise caution and responsibility in their pronouncements, dismissing reports that the administration plans to push for Charter change and term extensions should the impeachment case against Vice President Sara Duterte fail in the Senate as nothing more than “pure chismis.” Garin stressed that such claims are baseless and only serve to mislead and confuse the public.
The statement came in response to remarks made by Senator Imee Marcos, who raised the possibility of amending the Constitution if the impeachment proceedings do not garner the required votes.
The senator also cited an alleged proposal to extend the terms of members of Congress and President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. by three years. However, Garin firmly rejected these claims, describing them as misleading narratives driven by political motives. “This is clearly an attempt to deflect attention and cast suspicion on the administration. It distorts the truth to create the impression of a hidden agenda, taking advantage of the public’s strong opposition to any plan that would cancel elections,” she said.
Garin clarified that no discussions or proposals regarding Charter change or term extensions are taking place in the House of Representatives. She warned against using unsubstantiated rumors to sway public opinion, emphasizing that such tactics only poison political discourse.
“The impeachment process is clearly defined by the Constitution. We must not fuel fear and division by spreading imaginary scenarios and conspiracy theories,” she added.
The House leader also reminded fellow officials of their duty to uphold stability and public trust, especially during this politically sensitive period.
With the Articles of Impeachment already transmitted to the Senate and preparations for the trial underway, Garin called on leaders to let constitutional processes proceed naturally. “The people deserve facts and honesty, not fear‑mongering or statements made merely to score political points. Our discussions should always be grounded in truth, accountability, and responsibility,” she concluded.
