Duterte Impeachment: Senate’s Authority Questioned Amid Calls for Due Process, Transparency

Vice President Sara Duterte [Image courtesy of VP Sara Duterte’s Facebook page]

Duterte Impeachment: Senate’s Authority Questioned Amid Calls for Due Process, Transparency

By Wilma N. Yamzon – Thenationweek.com  

June 27, 2025

MANILA, Philippines – A debate has erupted over impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte, with legal experts and the House of Representatives advocating a thorough examination of the evidence and adherence to constitutional guidelines.

Some senators have suggested the possibility of dismissing the case outright, but House members are emphasizing the Senate’s duty to conduct a full trial and ensure transparency in the process.

The debate centers on the interpretation of the Senate’s role in the impeachment proceedings.

While Senate President Francis Escudero has asserted the Upper Chamber’s right to entertain motions to dismiss, citing the body’s collective decision-making power, others argue that such a move would circumvent the constitutional requirement for a comprehensive trial.

“The Constitution is explicit. The role of the impeachment court is to conduct a trial and render a decision,” Batangas 2nd District Rep. Gerville Luistro pointed out.

Luistro stressed the importance of allowing both sides to present their evidence before any ruling is made.

This perspective is shared by legal observers who believe that dismissing the impeachment without a thorough examination of the evidence will be a disservice to the Filipino people.

They argue that the allegations against Duterte, including the alleged misappropriation of P612.5 million in confidential funds, warrant a full investigation and a transparent resolution.

House Assistant Majority Leaders Ernesto Dionisio and Zia Adiong have also voiced their concerns about the potential for bias if senator judges were to propose a motion to dismiss without reviewing the evidence.

They emphasized the importance of remaining impartial and basing decisions on the merits of the case rather than on preconceived notions.

“What grounds exist for a motion to dismiss in the first place?” Dionisio asked, seeking the need to justify such a move.

Adiong contended that the constitutional mandate outlined in Article XI Section 3.4, which stipulates that the Senate must conduct a trial once impeachment articles are filed by at least one-third of the House.

He questioned the logic behind an outright dismissal, saying, “it’s not a matter of whether they can do it, but rather why they should do it.”

Focus on Transparency, Accountability

Supporters of a full impeachment trial argue that it is essential to ensure accountability and maintain public trust in the government.

They believe that the Filipino people have a right to be informed about allegations of the misuse of public funds and potential serious crimes.

A thorough examination of the evidence will also provide the Vice President with an opportunity to defend herself against accusations and present her side of the story.

This would ensure a fair and just process, regardless of the outcome, lawmakers pointed out.

Duterte’s Popularity, Legacy

Duterte continues to enjoy significant public support.

Her supporters view her as a strong and decisive leader committed to serving the Filipino people.

They agree that the impeachment efforts are politically motivated and aimed at undermining her leadership.

Despite the ongoing controversy, Duterte’s legacy as a transformative figure in Philippine politics remains secure, according to political observers.

Her focus on infrastructure development, peace and order, and social welfare programs has resonated with many Filipinos, they said.