Senator Mark Villar Defends Philippine Constitution
MANILA, Philippines — Senator Mark Villar firmly defended the Philippine Constitution on the Senate floor as he explained his vote against moving forward with the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte. This decision followed the Supreme Court’s landmark ruling, which declared the Articles of Impeachment unconstitutional.
The Supreme Court had ruled that the impeachment complaint violated the “one-year rule” and failed to respect due process. The unanimous decision, delivered on July 25, was the cornerstone of Villar’s explanation of vote, emphasizing adherence to constitutional mandates.
Respecting Judicial Authority and Constitutional Limits
Villar stressed the Senate’s duty to honor the Supreme Court’s role as the ultimate interpreter of the Constitution. He cited Article VIII, Section 1, which empowers the judiciary to check serious abuses by any government branch, including the Senate when acting as an impeachment tribunal.
“No one, including the Senate, can substitute its opinion over the Court’s in any matter concerning the Constitution,” Villar declared. He referenced the historic Angara vs. Electoral Commission case to highlight the Supreme Court’s constitutional authority.
Beyond legal obligations, Villar reminded fellow senators of their Oath of Office, binding them to uphold the Constitution and obey lawful orders. He warned that ignoring the Court’s ruling could spark a constitutional crisis, threatening the very foundation of the country’s democracy.
“If we disobey the decision of the Supreme Court in a constitutional issue then we are setting aside the constitution,” Villar said. He emphasized the need for integrity and respect among the government’s co-equal branches.
Upholding Due Process for Everyone
Villar echoed Senior Associate Justice Marvic Leonen’s views, the ponente of the Court’s decision, highlighting that impeachment procedures must respect due process despite their political nature. He insisted that fairness and proper procedure apply equally to all citizens, regardless of rank.
“This decision proves that due process is not an empty phrase,” Villar said. “It is a promise of fairness that our institutions are prepared to uphold.” He closed with Justice Leonen’s powerful words: “There is a right way to do the right thing at the right time. This is what the Rule of Just Law means.”
Villar’s explanation reaffirmed his commitment to preserving constitutional order and legal due process. His vote reflected not a surrender of Senate independence but a firm stand for the supremacy of the rule of law.
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