By Atty. Howie Calleja
Impeachment is a political process, far more so than a purely judicial or legal one. The ongoing impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte highlight this inherent tension. Many pundits are currently meticulously analyzing the potential votes for and against her conviction, recognizing the significant political ramifications regardless of the outcome.
A two-thirds majority vote in the Senate is required for conviction, a high threshold making success a significant challenge for those seeking her removal from office. This requirement reflects the gravity of the process and the need for broad consensus. However, senators, acting as judges in this impeachment trial, are constitutionally obligated to remain neutral, fair, and to base their decisions solely on the presented evidence. Their judgment should be impervious to public opinion, political pressure, or personal allegiances. Ideally, the Senate would comprise individuals of impeccable integrity and proven legal expertise, rather than those whose personal interests or affiliations might overshadow their commitment to impartial justice. The current composition of the Senate, however, presents a complex landscape of varying political affiliations, family first interest and potential conflicts of interest. And at the risk of being condescending some senators just choose to keep quiet and play safe while atleast 3 senators cannot hold any argument against a grade school student whether my speaking in English or Tagalog.
While senators are human and therefore susceptible to bias or influence – a reality acknowledged in the Philippine political system – it is crucial to approach the proceedings with cautious optimism. A degree of hope stems from the significant electoral victories of two party-list groups: AKBAYAN and ML. The successful candidacies of AKBAYAN’ top nominee, Chel Diokno, and ML’s top nominee, Leila de Lima, are expected to significantly strengthen prosecution panel with their legal expertise Both Diokno and De Lima are renowned human rights lawyers with extensive court room experience bringing considerable legal acumen and a reputation for integrity to the proceedings.
The expectation is that evidence will ultimately prevail, and that with Diokno and De Lima’s involvement, truth and justice will overcome partisan loyalties. The delay in the impeachment process, initially perceived as a setback, has paradoxically strengthened the legal arguments against the Vice President, providing more time for thorough investigation and evidence gathering. This delay makes it significantly more difficult for senators to justify a “no” vote without facing intense scrutiny and potential accusations of political bias. The upcoming impeachment proceedings will be a critical test of the Philippine Senate’s commitment to upholding its constitutional duties and ensuring accountability within the highest echelons of government.
In the end 110 million Filipinos will be glued on their TV and radio monitors as the daily telenovela in the Senate will unfold. This impeachment process will be a litmus test to our senators maturity. Either, to weigh in the evidence presented or totally disregard it and let their personal loyalty dictate their vote .
