REPRESENTATIVE Leila de Lima issued a statement on July 25, 2025, expressing strong criticism of the Supreme Court’s (SC) decision to dismiss the impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte.
De Lima characterized the ruling as unprecedented and procedurally flawed, highlighting the SC’s failure to allow the House of Representatives, the principal respondent, to file a formal comment as mandated by the Rules of Court. She noted that instead of issuing a standard order, the Court opted for a written interrogatory, an unusual and potentially irregular procedure.
De Lima argued that the SC treated the House’s response to the interrogatory as a formal pleading, which it was not, and proceeded to issue a final decision without a formal response from the respondent.
She pointed out that this lack of due process is unacceptable, comparing the situation unfavorably to even traffic violations, which receive more procedural fairness. The congresswoman emphasized that the decision is essentially an ex-parte ruling, a prohibited practice where a judge issues a decision without allowing all parties to be heard.
While expressing respect for the Supreme Court, De Lima stressed the need for clarity and accountability in a case of such constitutional significance.
She argued that the public deserves a comprehensive explanation for this deviation from established procedural rules. De Lima cautioned against interpreting the ruling as vindication or exoneration for the Vice President, emphasizing that the allegations remain serious and unanswered. She called on the public to remain vigilant and continue to demand accountability from government officials, asserting that the fight for justice is far from over.
“Kaya sa lahat ng nagmamalasakit, sa lahat ng nagtatanong: Patuloy tayong manindigan. Patuloy tayong magbantay. Patuloy tayong manindigan para sa isang gobyernong totoo ang pananagutan,” she said.
