Makabayan Lawmakers Challenge Senator Marcos’ Impeachment Claim
Makabayan representatives France Castro and incoming congressman Antonio Tinio strongly opposed Senator Imee Marcos’ unilateral statement that the impeachment bid against Vice President Sara Duterte had already been “defeated.” Both lawmakers stressed the need to start the impeachment process properly to hold Duterte accountable.
Castro criticized Senator Marcos and Vice President Duterte, saying, “Ito ang hirap sa mga taong hindi sanay na pinapanagot sa mga kasalanan sa bayan tulad ni Senator Marcos at VP Duterte.” She warned that without accountability, Duterte may repeat her alleged offenses, and other politicians might follow her example. “Kaya dapat na talagang masimulan na ng maayos ang impeachment at mapanagot si VP Duterte. Kung hindi, uulitin lang niya iyan at mas malaking halaga pa ang mawawala. Gagayahin din siya ng iba pang pulitiko,” Castro added.
Concerns Over Accountability and Justice
Antonio Tinio, set to return to Congress in the 20th Congress, echoed the call for accountability. He questioned how justice could prevail when government leaders ignore financial transparency. “Paano na ang katarungan at accountability sa mamamayan kapag ganito ang mga namumuno? Limpak-limpak na pera ang di mapaliwanag saan ginastos at kung ano ang ginawa, tapos ok lang sa kanila,” Tinio remarked.
Senator Marcos had recently declared to pro-impeachment lawmakers, “Tanggapin niyo na, talo na ang impeachment. ‘Yun lang ‘yun. Kahit ngayon, kahit sa Hulyo pa, talo na.” This statement came after the mid-term elections, which increased the number of Senate allies perceived to support Vice President Duterte. These senators will serve as judges during the impeachment trial.
Militant Lawmakers Reject Marcos’ Defeat Declaration
The militant lawmakers believe Senator Marcos’ comments aim to downplay the serious allegations against Vice President Duterte and divert public attention. Tinio said, “Ang pagsasabing ‘talo na ang impeachment’ ay malinaw na pamamaraan ng pagpapalaganap ng kawalang pananagutan. Hindi dapat hinahayaan ang ganitong mindset sa pamahalaan.”
Both Castro and Tinio emphasized the urgency of moving forward with the impeachment process. They insisted that Vice President Duterte must be held responsible for the alleged misuse of confidential funds to maintain government integrity.
For more news and updates on impeachment bid against Sara Duterte, visit Filipinokami.com.