Guided by Constitution in Impeachment Proceedings
The best guiding force in the impeachment proceedings is the country’s Constitution, Manila’s 3rd district Representative Joel Chua firmly stated on Wednesday, June 11. As the process unfolds, the key focus remains on the rules set by the supreme law of the land.
This emphasis on being guided by Constitution in impeachment proceedings was sparked by Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa’s recent remarks. On Tuesday, June 10, dela Rosa claimed that his decisions are “guided by the Holy Spirit,” saying, “l am not a lawyer, nag-iisip lang (I just think). l am just guided by the Holy Spirit.”
On the same day, Senator dela Rosa, acting as a senator-judge, moved to dismiss outright the impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte, bypassing the constitutionally mandated trial. However, this motion was later amended, resulting in the Senate returning the articles of impeachment to the House of Representatives.
Chua Stresses Constitution as Ultimate Guide
Rep. Chua, a licensed lawyer and one of the 11 solon-prosecutors tasked with seeking a guilty verdict for Vice President Duterte based on any of the seven articles of impeachment, reacted to dela Rosa’s statement.
“Lahat naman tayo ‘yun ang gusto natin, gabayan tayo ng Holy Spirit. Pero ang pinakatamang gabay po dito sa impeachment proceeding ay ang ating Saligang Batas (All of us have that desire, to be guided by the Holy Spirit. But the most appropriate guide here in the impeachment proceedings is our Constitution),” Chua said.
Chua’s position underscores the importance of strictly following the Constitution rather than relying on personal or spiritual guidance in such critical legal matters.
Legal Process and Political Stakes
The impeachment trial against Vice President Duterte has drawn national attention, with the solon-prosecutors meticulously examining the charges. The Constitution serves as the foundation for ensuring fairness and due process throughout the proceedings.
Meanwhile, Senator dela Rosa, a former Philippine National Police chief, continues to play a significant role as a senator-judge, navigating the complex political and legal terrain.
The ongoing developments highlight the tension between legal protocol and personal beliefs as the nation watches the impeachment case unfold.
For more news and updates on impeachment proceedings, visit Filipinokami.com.
