Manila: Leaders of the House of Representatives have expressed strong disapproval of the Senate's decision to archive the impeachment case against Vice President Sara Duterte.
According to Philippines News Agency, Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez questioned the Senate's move, highlighting that the case is still pending in the Supreme Court. Romualdez emphasized that archiving the case effectively buries the Articles of Impeachment, despite the Supreme Court's ruling not being final. He noted that the House had filed a Motion for Reconsideration on August 5, with the Court finding the arguments significant enough to require responses from the involved parties, including the Vice President.
Romualdez clarified that the impeachment case centers on accountability based on verified facts and sworn documents, rather than political maneuvering. He criticized the swift archiving of the case and reiterated the commitment to the constitutional duty, stating, "We rise for the Republic. Tuloy ang laban (The fight continues), for the Constitution, for the rule of law, and for the enduring truth that no public office is ever beyond the reach of accountability."
House Committee on Human Rights chair Bienvenido 'Benny' Abante Jr. described the Senate's decision as a "dangerous precedent" that undermines the constitutional process of accountability. Abante warned that the action could embolden public officials to disregard questions of propriety or legality, especially when they enjoy political popularity. He stressed that the impeachment process is about constitutional integrity, not political ambition.
Abante also criticized some senators for dismissing the complaint as politically motivated without addressing the allegations' substance. He emphasized that impeachment is a constitutional mechanism to hold high officials accountable, warning against reducing it to mere political noise.
Despite respecting the Senate's institutional prerogative, Abante stated that the matter is not over, as the House prosecution panel has filed a motion for reconsideration with the Supreme Court. He affirmed that the legal process and public judgment continue.
Jude Acidre, chairman of the House Committee on Higher and Technical Education, cautioned senators against deflecting public scrutiny by attacking the House and Speaker Romualdez. Acidre asserted that the House acted institutionally, and the Senate's archiving of the complaint does not resolve the controversy nor erase the public's demand for answers.
Acidre called for respect between the legislative branches, reminding senators that disagreement should not lead to questioning the House's motives. He urged for clarity and accountability, stating, "Let's stop the noise and start answering the questions that matter."
