Manila: House Lead Prosecutor Gerville 'Jinky Bitrics' Luistro of Batangas has expressed satisfaction with the commencement of the Senate impeachment trial, asserting that the proceedings reflect a functioning constitutional accountability process.
According to Philippines News Agency, Luistro, in a press conference following the trial's first day, commended the impeachment court for adhering to constitutional mandates. She emphasized that the trial's progress signifies a victory for the Filipino people as it ensures that the accountability mechanism is being upheld and the Constitution is being respected.
Luistro highlighted that both sides delivered their opening statements and addressed pre-trial issues. She mentioned the anticipation for the presentation of evidence scheduled to begin the following day. The impeachment court's acceptance of the prosecution's proposed sequence for presenting the Articles of Impeachment was also noted by Luistro. The prosecution intends to first present evidence on Article IV, concerning alleged threats against President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and former Speaker Martin Romualdez.
House prosecution panel adviser and spokesperson Robert Ace Barbers remarked that the trial's initiation should not be seen as a win-or-loss moment, but rather as the formal commencement of the constitutional process. Barbers emphasized the importance of the trial proceeding despite prior doubts about its continuation.
Barbers also addressed the impeachment court's decision to return a sealed Bureau of Internal Revenue box to the tax bureau, maintaining that this action does not diminish its evidentiary value. He assured that the prosecution might reintroduce the records at an appropriate stage.
As the trial progresses, Barbers conveyed confidence that the prosecution would continue to present evidence to fortify the articles of impeachment against the respondent.
Support for the impeachment trial's initiation came from two labor groups. Sentro ng mga Nagkakaisa at Progresibong Manggagawa Deputy Secretary General Nice Coronacion described the proceedings as a constitutional mechanism aimed at upholding democratic accountability by examining serious allegations against high-ranking officials through evidence and due process.
Coronacion emphasized that allowing the impeachment process to proceed is an affirmation of constitutional supremacy rather than a declaration of guilt. He asserted that the standards of fairness and accountability applied to ordinary workers should equally apply to those in the highest government offices.
Partido Manggagawa National Chairperson and NAGKAISA! spokesperson Rene Magtubo urged senators to transcend partisan interests and fulfill their constitutional duties as impartial members of the impeachment court. Magtubo stressed the labor movement's commitment to defending democratic institutions, the rule of law, and ensuring equal accountability as essential components for achieving a just and democratic society.
