Senate must act as impartial judges

CEBU, Philippines — Senator Risa Hontiveros said she expects the Senate to act as impartial senator-judges in the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, stressing that no decision should be made without first fully hearing the evidence and testimonies from both the prosecution and the defense.

Hontiveros issued the statement in response to concerns that the Senate may no longer thoroughly examine evidence and could proceed directly to a decision. She underscored that the pre-trial proceedings have continued and that all required documents have already been submitted as the chamber prepares to convene as an impeachment court.

She said senators are now awaiting the formal presentation of evidence and witness testimonies from both sides, noting that senator-judges will also have the opportunity to directly question witnesses during the trial to clarify key issues.

Hontiveros emphasized that any ruling must be grounded on the evidence presented during the proceedings, rejecting the idea of an early or predetermined decision.

“I think it is impossible for us to decide at the outset. How would we do that? We cannot do that unless we actually hear all of this, because that is what will guide us in our vote or our decision,” she said.

The Senate is scheduled to continue the impeachment trial of the vice president on July 6, 2026.

Among the grounds cited in impeachment complaints against Duterte are allegations related to the alleged misuse and questionable disbursement of confidential funds during her tenure as vice president and as former secretary of the Department of Education.

The complaints also raise accusations of corruption, betrayal of public trust, culpable violation of the Constitution, and other purported irregularities tied to the handling of public funds and accountability of office.

These allegations remain subject to presentation and scrutiny during the impeachment proceedings and have yet to be resolved by the impeachment court. — (FREEMAN)