CBCP Calls for Transparency in Vice President Impeachment
MANILA, Philippines — The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has once again emphasized the need for transparency and accountability as it voiced concern over the Senate’s delay in the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte. This issue was a key focus during the 130th CBCP Plenary Assembly, where bishops gathered to reflect on pressing national and global matters.
“We are disturbed by the delay in the Senate in executing the constitutional demand for the impeachment process of the Vice President,” the CBCP stated. The bishops underscored that the delay in Vice President impeachment undermines the democratic process and public trust.
Senate’s Impasse on Impeachment Trial
The Senate convened as an impeachment court on June 10, with senator-judges taking their oaths earlier that day. However, the court voted 18-5 to return the impeachment articles to the House of Representatives, effectively delaying the trial. The CBCP affirmed that impeachment, when conducted with truth and justice, is a vital democratic tool to uphold transparency and accountability in governance.
“We affirm that impeachment, when pursued with truth and justice, is a legitimate democratic mechanism for transparency and accountability in governance,” the bishops emphasized. They urged the faithful to approach the matter with openness and fairness, listening to all sides involved.
Church Leaders Decry Delay as Constitutional Betrayal
CBCP President Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David earlier described the postponement of the impeachment trial as a betrayal of the 1987 Constitution and public trust. He stressed that although impeachment is partly political and quasi-judicial, it must meet moral standards that demand truth, justice, and accountability.
Beyond the impeachment issue, the CBCP also addressed other pressing concerns. The bishops called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza to enable meaningful negotiations aimed at resolving the long-standing Palestinian conflict. They condemned the weaponization of starvation and reiterated that “there is no victory in war.”
Advocating for Peace and Workers’ Rights
“We advocate for a sustained culture of peace rooted in justice, mercy and our shared humanity, transcending race, religion and politics,” the CBCP declared. In addition, the bishops highlighted the plight of Filipino workers receiving wages below the living standard. They called on employers, employees, and the government to engage in dialogue to establish just wages and secure tenure, aligning with the Church’s social teachings.
Recently, the National Capital Region wage board approved a P50 daily minimum wage increase, effective July 18, 2025. This is the highest increase granted by the board for approximately 1.2 million workers in Metro Manila, following last year’s P35 hike. The CBCP sees this as a positive step toward improving the dignity of Filipino workers.
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