Manila: House Senior Deputy Majority Leader Lorenz Defensor of Iloilo stated that Vice President Sara Duterte's announcement to run for president in the 2028 national elections will not interfere with the constitutional process regarding the impeachment complaints filed against her. He acknowledged that while her bid might reshape political alignments, it will not derail the proceedings.
According to Philippines News Agency, Defensor emphasized the strategic nature of Duterte's decision, noting it might help her identify her true allies amidst the filed impeachment complaints. In an interview with House reporters, he highlighted the importance of maintaining independence in handling these complaints and assured that the process would adhere to constitutional duties.
Defensor pointed out that the impeachment complaints would be referred to the committee on justice to evaluate their form and substance. He assured that the Committee on Justice would remain objective in its hearings and deliberations, unaffected by Duterte's presidential bid.
He also dismissed concerns that Duterte's political ambitions might pressure lawmakers, stating there was no hindrance or influence affecting the process. However, he acknowledged the political challenges facing House members as the 2028 elections approach.
Defensor mentioned that currently, there are insufficient endorsements for the complaints to advance to the Senate, but he is confident they will reach the Committee on Justice.
Senate President Vicente Sotto III echoed Defensor's sentiments, affirming that Duterte's declaration would not impact the Senate's constitutional role if impeachment proceedings reach the chamber. Sotto emphasized that senators are expected to remain impartial, regardless of political developments.
Sotto refrained from speculating on the political implications of Duterte's early announcement and noted that there is no official notice regarding the International Criminal Court naming Senators Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa and Christopher Lawrence "Bong" Go as co-perpetrators in the Duterte administration's drug war.
Senate Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano mentioned that the minority bloc is drafting a resolution to emphasize respect for Philippine courts in matters involving potential arrest orders from international tribunals. Cayetano stressed the importance of allowing recourse to local courts to uphold constitutional safeguards and sovereignty.
On Duterte's presidential aspirations, Cayetano remarked that early announcements enable greater public scrutiny and expressed his well wishes to her.
