House Prosecution Panel Stands Firm Amid Political Pressure

Manila: House trial spokespersons Zia Alonto Adiong of Lanao del Sur and Renee Louise Co of Kabataan Party-list have affirmed that the prosecution will not be swayed by political pressure or the influence of Vice President Sara Z. Duterte's supporters. They emphasized that the impeachment trial is a constitutional process designed to address long-standing public questions.

According to Philippines News Agency, during a press conference at the Senate, Adiong stated that succumbing to pressure would only perpetuate a culture of impunity. "If I give in to that kind of pressure, it's like reinforcing the culture of impunity," Adiong remarked. He reiterated the importance of adhering to the Constitution as the foundation of their actions.

Adiong further stressed that the potential loss of political capital should not deter the House prosecution team. "Regardless of the political pressure or the fear of risking political capital, we should not be shaken by that," he asserted. This trial, he said, is an opportunity to demonstrate that the Constitution is in place to serve the interests of the people, and political repercussions should not influence the prosecution's mission.

The primary responsibility of the prosecution, Adiong explained, is to present the case before the Senate impeachment court and ensure the process advances. "Our primary consideration should be in line with our primordial constitutional duty as far as the impeachment is concerned to initiate and then to present the case before the impeachment court," he stated.

Co emphasized that the trial is meant to benefit all parties involved, including Duterte, her supporters, and Filipinos seeking clarity on the Articles of Impeachment. "Everyone will benefit from this trial because everyone deserves to know the answers to the long-pending questions," Co said. She urged all parties to focus on the trial and allow evidence to be presented, ensuring that the questions are addressed.