HOUSE Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability chair Joel Chua of Manila on Wednesday said the impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Z. Duterte will move forward after the Supreme Court (SC) did not issue a temporary restraining order (TRO).
“Tinabla ng Supreme Court si VP Sara, ibig sabihin tuloy ang impeachment. The Supreme Court did not issue a temporary restraining order. This means there is no legal impediment to the ongoing impeachment proceedings. The House Committee on Justice will continue its work as mandated by the Constitution,” Chua, a member of the House Committee on Justice, said.
Chua stressed that the House remains respectful of the SC even as it proceeds with its constitutional mandate.
“We respect the Supreme Court and its processes. At the same time, the House is duty-bound to proceed unless restrained by the Court. This reflects institutional balance—not conflict,” he said.
The lawmaker also pointed out that the filing of a petition before the SC does not automatically halt proceedings.
“The filing of a petition does not automatically stop proceedings. The absence of a TRO underscores that accountability mechanisms remain in motion,” Chua said.
He emphasized that the committee is currently focused on determining probable cause, not adjudicating guilt.
“The Committee is in the stage of determining probable cause. Proceedings are evidence-based, document-driven, and rules-based. This is not a trial—it is a preliminary constitutional process,” he said.
Chua added that the Vice President continues to have the opportunity to respond to the allegations.
“The Vice President has full opportunity to answer allegations in the proper forum. Due process is being observed at every stage,” Chua said.
Chua also underscored the public’s right to be informed as the proceedings move forward.
“The people expect transparency on issues raised. The House process ensures that facts are examined in an orderly and accountable manner,” Chua said.
