Manila: The Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) is closely monitoring the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte at the Senate, CBCP - Episcopal Commission on Interreligious Dialogue Bishop Jose Colin Bagaforo said Friday. "We are closely monitoring the impeachment trial. Our position remains unchanged: this impeachment trial is important," he said in a press conference after the 132nd CBCP Plenary Assembly held in Sinacaban, Misamis Occidental.

According to Philippines News Agency, the Catholic prelate appealed to those involved in the trial to allow the process to take its course. "Let the impeachment process take its course. Let the rule of law render its own verdict," he added. Bagaforo noted that the CBCP is not for or against Duterte but supports the law and the Constitution. "This is not a condemnation of the Vice President. We are not taking a stand for or against the Vice President. What we are upholding is the Constitution and the rule of law," the Kidapawan bishop said. "The Church advocates for nothing other than justice. This also serves as a reminder to public officials to be accountable."

More than 80 bishops and archbishops participated in the plenary meeting, which was held from July 8 to 10.