Speaker Martin Romualdez on Wednesday commended Senate President Francis Escudero and the Senate leadership for their thorough preparations ahead of the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte in June.
“The Senate has shown its commitment to upholding due process and ensuring a fair and impartial impeachment trial. I extend my deepest gratitude to Senate President Escudero and the entire Senate for their readiness and professionalism in handling this historic proceeding,” Romualdez said.
The lawyer-politician from Leyte assured that the House prosecution panel is “ready to present the case as soon as the impeachment court is convened.” The Articles of Impeachment against the VP were submitted on February 5 signed by 215 lawmakers.
“We trust that the Senate will carry out its constitutional duty and proceed with the trial without unnecessary delays, in accordance with the rule of law,” Romualdez added.
His statement came after House Secretary General Reginald Velasco and other House officials visited the Senate to inspect the facilities that will be allocated for the House prosecution team.
“We saw during the visit of our House Secretary General to the Senate the readiness of our colleagues in the Upper House. Early and proper preparation is very important to ensure order when the impeachment trial arrives,” Romualdez said.
Velasco’s team first visited the Senate session hall, which will serve as the venue for the trial, and later proceeded to the Sen. Arturo M. Tolentino Room, which has been designated as the office for the House prosecutors.
Romualdez emphasized that the prosecution panel has meticulously reviewed the evidence and legal arguments to ensure a solid and fact-based presentation before the Senate acting as an impeachment court.
“The House prosecution panel will have the necessary facilities to conduct their work efficiently. We have the Senate to thank for this. It ensures that our representatives can fulfill their constitutional duty to present the impeachment case in a dignified and professional manner,” he said.
Romualdez also highlighted the importance of the Senate’s cooperation in ensuring a smooth trial process. He reiterated that the impeachment trial is a solemn constitutional process and should be conducted with the highest level of integrity and impartiality.
“This is about ensuring that our democratic institutions remain strong, credible, and accountable to the Filipino people. I trust that the Senate will exercise its role as the impeachment court with the utmost fairness and independence,” he said.
The Speaker further assured that the House prosecution panel is fully committed to presenting their case with objectivity and adherence to the rule of law.
“We will continue to work closely with the Senate to ensure a fair, transparent, and credible impeachment trial. Our commitment is to the Filipino people and to the integrity of our democratic system,” Romualdez said.