Senate Action Highlights a Constitutional Balance
MANILA, Philippines — Palace press officer Undersecretary Claire Castro said on Saturday that the Senate’s decision to archive the articles of impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte is not aimed at undermining the Marcos administration. The move, she noted, respects the separation of powers and does not target the presidency. Local leaders noted that the outcome should be viewed within a broader framework of accountability and checks and balances.
In an interview on Saturday, Castro emphasized that it was not the Marcos administration that filed or submitted the articles of impeachment against Duterte in the first place.
Executive- Legislature Balance
Castro added that the Executive will not intervene in congressional affairs, as both chambers are coequal branches. Sources said this stance signals respect for the roles each body plays in governance, even amid public debate over sensitive topics like confidential funds and other actions of the vice president.
She further remarked that if anyone claims the decision is aimed at the administration, that is unlikely. Local leaders noted that the move is more about the House prosecutors and those seeking truth than a vendetta against the President.
Supreme Court and Next Steps
On the Court’s role, Castro said the Office of the President will respect whatever ruling the Supreme Court issues on the impeachment case, as the Court remains the final arbiter of legal issues. “Whatever the decision of the Supreme Court will be, that will be respected by the President, the Executive. Why? Because the Supreme Court is the final arbiter of any legal issues,” Castro said. She added, “So since there is still a motion for reconsideration, let’s just see what the Supreme Court will decide here.”
Earlier, the Senate voted 19-4 with one abstention to archive the articles of impeachment of Vice President Duterte. This followed the Supreme Court’s decision declaring the impeachment case unconstitutional, according to sources. The development underscores the complex interplay between branches as the courts review legal questions before any final action.
Sources said the episode highlights the friction and resilience of constitutional checks in a polarized political environment. Local leaders noted that the outcome does not erase accountability but instead frames it within due legal process. The public, meanwhile, awaits how future disclosures and court rulings will shape oversight and governance.
For more news and updates on Sara Duterte impeachment, visit Filipinokami.com.
