Manila: The impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte is anticipated to become a significant issue in the upcoming elections, Senate President Francis Escudero announced on Thursday. He highlighted that the impeachment complaint provides voters with a substantive basis to evaluate candidates, moving beyond personality-driven politics.

According to Philippines News Agency, Escudero remarked that if impeachment becomes an election issue, it would be beneficial as it allows voters to question candidates on a relevant topic, particularly impacting Congressional and Senate races. This shift could make elections more focused on issues rather than personalities, he noted during the Kapihan sa Senado briefing.

Escudero emphasized that the members of the 20th Congress, to be elected during the midterm polls in May, will ultimately decide on the impeachment case. This makes it a pertinent topic for both candidates seeking legislative office and the electorate at large.

While advocating for issue-based elections, Escudero advised candidates against making premature commitments regarding the impeachment, urging them to maintain neutrality until they have reviewed all evidence. He stressed the importance of not prejudging the case before a thorough examination of evidence takes place.

Escudero dismissed concerns that the impeachment process might destabilize the country, asserting that it is a constitutional mechanism designed for peaceful dispute resolution. He also urged senatorial candidates to exercise restraint when discussing impeachment during their campaigns.

The Senate President advised candidates to focus on upholding justice and adhering to the law and evidence in their stance on the impeachment issue. He discouraged them from making premature declarations about the case, advocating for a balanced approach.

As the impeachment issue is expected to shape campaign narratives and influence voter decisions, Escudero stated that the upcoming months will test the political leaders' ability to navigate issue-based elections in the country.