The Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has issued a statement urging the Senate to proceed with the impeachment trial of the Vice President without delay. The House of Representatives voted by a significant majority to impeach the Vice President, citing probable cause and forwarding the Articles of Impeachment to the Senate as directed by the Constitution.
CBCP's Appeal to Senators
The CBCP calls on senators to abide by their constitutional duty to conduct a trial, summon witnesses, hear testimony, and vote based on evidence and the demands of justice. The bishops warn against any actions that could be perceived as evading sworn duties or circumventing constitutional requirements.
"You now have this opportunity to restore our people's faith and confidence in our public institutions that adhere to the rule of law and serve the common good in the pursuit of justice and truth," the statement reads.
Call for No Delay
The CBCP emphasizes that delaying the trial would delay justice for both the Filipino people and the Vice President. They urge the Senate to convene as an impeachment court at the earliest possible time.
Appeal to the Filipino People
The bishops also call on Filipinos to fulfill their civic duties by ensuring a fair and credible trial. They encourage the public to remain vigilant in monitoring the proceedings to uphold truth, safeguard public discourse, and combat misinformation and disinformation.
"Our deep desire and fervent prayer is that we arrive at the truth through this constitutional process, with the hope that this will strengthen our respect for and adherence to the rule of law, a key pillar of a genuine and stable democracy," the statement adds.
Prayer for Guidance
The CBCP invokes the intercession of Our Lady of Fatima, whose feast was celebrated on May 13, asking for prayers for leaders, the nation, the Church, and the people. The statement is signed by Archbishop Gilbert A. Garcera of Lipa, President of the CBCP.
