Public Observes Senator-Judges’ Integrity in Impeachment Process
Malacañang has refrained from commenting directly on whether senator-judges can uphold the integrity of the impeachment process against Vice President Sara Duterte. However, the Palace asserted that the public can discern who among the senators are biased. This early public scrutiny highlights the importance of trust in the senator-judges during such a critical legal proceeding.
Palace Press Officer and Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro shared in a briefing that “Makikita naman ng taumbayan kung sino ba talaga ang biased at hindi at makikita rin ng taumbayan kung sino sa mga senador ang nagtatrabaho lamang ayon sa batas at ayon sa Rule of Law.” She emphasized that the people will observe who is truly impartial and who is merely following the law and established rules.
Vice President Sara Duterte’s Take on Senator-Judges’ Bias
Vice President Duterte expressed that there is no need for senator-judges, even those who show bias, to inhibit themselves from the impeachment trial. She urged giving them the benefit of the doubt, explaining that if all biased senators were asked to step aside, many would be disqualified.
In response, Castro maintained a neutral stance, stating, “Kung ganyan po ang kanyang opinyon, wala po tayong masasabi, dahil iyan po ay nasa kanyang saloobin.” She highlighted that the Palace respects the Vice President’s opinion but refrains from further comment.
Palace Defers to Senate on Impeachment Integrity
When pressed about the ability of senator-judges to maintain the impeachment process’s integrity, Castro conveyed that it is premature to draw conclusions. She underscored that the Senate, acting as the impeachment court, is responsible for handling the proceedings.
“Mahirap magbigay ng konklusyon. Muli nasa senador na po iyan na siyang umaakto bilang judges sa impeachment court at hayaan na lamang po natin ang kanilang pagkilos, pag-evaluate ng pangyayari sa kanila mismong impeachment court at tao naman po ang makakakita kung sila po ay nagtatrabaho ng maayos,” Castro explained. She expressed confidence that the people will ultimately judge whether the senators are performing their duties properly.
The Role of the Public in Upholding Rule of Law
The ongoing impeachment trial underscores the critical role of transparency and public observation. The Palace’s view highlights that accountability lies not only with the senator-judges but also with the people who watch and evaluate their actions.
As the impeachment court proceeds, the public’s trust depends heavily on the senator-judges’ commitment to fairness and adherence to the Rule of Law. This early stage of the trial sets the tone for how justice will be perceived and delivered.
For more news and updates on impeachment process, visit Filipinokami.com.