Senator Alan Peter Cayetano is named as new Senate President. Photo courtesy of Avito Dalan/PNA
A Franciscan religious order voiced concern over recent political developments, describing actions in the Senate as efforts that appeared to protect vested interests and shield Vice President Sara Duterte.
Members of the Province of San Pedro Bautista issued the statement following the change in Senate leadership on May 11, when 13 senators voted to install Senator Alan Peter Cayetano as Senate president, replacing Senator Vicente Sotto III.
The leadership transition coincided with proceedings at the House of Representatives, which impeached Duterte with 257 lawmakers voting in favor, 25 against, and nine abstaining.
Following the vote, the House began preparing the articles of impeachment for transmittal to the Senate, where a trial is expected to take place.
Sotto had earlier said the Senate would convene as an impeachment court once the complaint is formally endorsed to the chamber.
The Franciscans said the developments reflected a troubling situation in which political loyalty was being prioritized over broader institutional responsibilities.
Franciscan Minister Provincial Lino Gregorio Redoblado said the impeachment process exists to ensure accountability among public officials and warned against any actions that could undermine it.
He added that weakening constitutional mechanisms for political considerations risks eroding public trust and could contribute to a culture of impunity within government institutions.