Makabayan Bloc Calls for Senate Impeachment Trial
Before their terms end this week, members of the Makabayan bloc made a strong appeal to Filipinos from all sectors to back calls for the commencement of Vice President Sara Duterte’s Senate impeachment trial. This urgent call was made in a joint statement on June 7 by ACT Teachers Party-list Rep. France Castro, Gabriela Party-list Rep. Arlene Brosas, and Kabataan Party-list Rep. Raoul Manuel. Their last day in the House of Representatives is set for June 11.
The Makabayan bloc emphasized that the Filipino people have already endured enough of Vice President Duterte’s dangerous rhetoric, misuse of public funds, and blatant neglect of democratic institutions. “Her misuse of confidential funds represent clear violations of her oath of office and an impeachable offense under the Constitution,” the trio declared.
They urged the Senate to prioritize the welfare of the people over politics and to allow the impeachment process to proceed as mandated by the Constitution. These comments come amid reports of some senators’ reluctance, or outright refusal, to begin the constitutionally required impeachment trial against the Vice President.
Accountability Must Prevail Over Politics
“The time for accountability has come. We cannot allow public officials to waste taxpayers’ money with impunity,” said Castro. She added in Tagalog, “Ang mga Pilipino ay nararapat na makakita ng hustisya laban sa mga opisyal na sumusuway sa batas at nagwawaldas ng pondo ng bayan.”
Meanwhile, Brosas highlighted the role of women in this fight, stating, “As women leaders, we condemn VP Duterte’s violent language and her betrayal of public trust. Kailangan nating ipakita na dapat managot ang may kasalanan, kahit sino pa yan.”
Manuel, representing the youth and students, stressed that their sector has always been at the forefront of holding corrupt officials accountable. He warned, “Hindi natin dapat hayaang maging normal ang mga banta ng karahasan at korupsyon sa gobyerno.”
Wide Call for Public Support and Action
The Makabayan bloc is encouraging all sectors — including workers, farmers, fisherfolk, teachers, students, women, the urban poor, professionals, and concerned citizens — to participate in rallies, forums, and other peaceful activities. These aim to demand that the impeachment trial against Vice President Duterte proceed without delay.
They reminded the public that the Constitution provides clear mechanisms for removing public officials who violate their oaths. “It is our duty as representatives of the people to ensure these mechanisms work for justice and accountability,” the statement added.
For more news and updates on Vice President Sara Duterte Senate impeachment trial, visit Filipinokami.com.