A recent OCTA Research survey released on Monday reveals that a significant 78% of Filipinos are demanding the immediate start of Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment trial. Only 13% are opposed, while the remaining 9% are neutral or undecided.
OCTA emphasized that these findings demonstrate a robust public call for accountability and adherence to due process in response to the allegations against the Vice President.
Senator Risa Hontiveros, recognizing the gravity of the situation, has affirmed her intention to formally file a request to initiate the impeachment trial during Monday’s plenary session. She asserts that this action is essential to upholding the Senate’s constitutional responsibilities and serving the people.
“It’s not a complicated or lengthy process to swear in and read the Articles of Impeachment. The robes are ready, and the session hall is set. This won’t take more than an hour, so why should we avoid such a straightforward opening of the impeachment trial?” Hontiveros stated.
In a counterpoint, Senator Imee Marcos has indicated that she has seen drafts of a resolution aimed at dismissing the trial of the Vice President.
The former president of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) articulated on Monday that dismissing the trial would be “utterly illogical.”
“It cannot be dismissed on technical grounds or labeled as ‘functionally dismissed.’ Such actions have no basis in the Constitution or jurisprudence. These resolutions are illogical and fundamentally contrary to the letter, spirit, and intent of the Constitution and Senate rules on impeachment,” he explained.
However, Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero confirmed on Monday that no resolutions to dismiss the trial have been filed yet.
In response, the Akbayan Party, along with various civil society groups, has organized a three-day protest aimed at putting political pressure on the Senate to commence the impeachment trial of the Vice President.
“We will go to the Senate to make it clear to our senators that the message from the people is unambiguous: the Senate must adhere to the Constitution,” stated Rafaela David, President of the Akbayan Party.
On February 5, the House of Representatives voted to impeach Vice President Sara Duterte over serious allegations, including corruption and a purported plot to assassinate her former ally and running mate, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., along with other Philippine leaders.