The Palace on Wednesday reiterated their stance on the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte, affirming that it is up to the Senate to decide on what happens as President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. remains neutral on the matter.
This comes amid growing concerns that the impeachment trial may not proceed, as senators continue to debate whether it can be carried over to the 20th Congress.
With only a few session days remaining in the 19th Congress, the Senate is unlikely to begin the trial before it adjourns later this month.
“Unang-una po sinabi naman ng Pangulo na ito ay nasa kamay na ng Senado. At hindi makikialam ang Pangulo kung ano ang mangyayaring pagdedebate sa Senado,” Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said in a Malacañang press briefing.
Castro reminded that the decision made by the Senate should abide the law and be in accordance with the Constitution.
“Gusto lang po nya, para sa kalahatan, hindi lamang po para sa impeachment dapat lang po manatili ang due process,” she said.
Malacañang, meanwhile, emphasized that any decision made by the Senate regarding the impeachment trial should not be linked to or attributed to President Marcos Jr.
“Sana po iwaksi nila sa kanilang isipan na may kinalaman ang Pangulo dito dahil yan ay solely the responsibility of the Senate.”
The House of Representatives impeached Vice President Sara Duterte in February, citing several allegations, including the alleged misuse of confidential funds.
The articles of impeachment were approved based on a fourth complaint, which was endorsed by the majority of House members, including Ilocos Norte Representative Sandro Marcos and Speaker Martin Romualdez.