Justice Committee Chair Emphasizes Impartiality in VP Sara Duterte Impeachment Proceedings
House Justice Committee Chair and Batangas Representative Gerville Luistro has firmly stated that no one should prejudge the panel's upcoming decision regarding the impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte. In a recent development, Luistro highlighted that even he, as the presiding officer during the series of hearings, refrains from influencing the decisions of his fellow lawmakers or the eventual outcome of the full House plenary.
Focus on Constitutional Duties
According to Luistro, the committee's current priority is to fulfill its constitutional responsibilities in handling the impeachment complaints against Vice President Sara Duterte. He stressed that the panel must adhere strictly to legal mandates before considering any subsequent steps. Only after the verified complaints are transmitted, should the committee contemplate the proceedings in the Senate, which would serve as an impeachment court if the process advances to that stage.
Response to External Comments
When questioned about former Presidential Legal Counsel Salvador Panelo's earlier remarks suggesting that only four to six senators might support a guilty verdict against VP Sara Duterte, Luistro reiterated his stance against prejudging the hearings. He emphasized that if the complaint reaches a full trial, it is crucial not to anticipate or influence the outcome prematurely. Luistro underscored the necessity of completing all required legal procedures for the impeachment complaints and presenting any supporting evidence as mandated by law.
Commitment to Due Process
Luistro's statements reinforce a commitment to due process and impartiality in the impeachment proceedings. He pointed out that the focus should remain on following the established legal framework, ensuring that every step is conducted transparently and without external pressure. This approach aims to uphold the integrity of the legislative process and maintain public trust in the handling of such significant matters.
In summary, the House Justice Committee, under Luistro's leadership, is dedicated to a methodical and unbiased review of the impeachment complaints against Vice President Sara Duterte, prioritizing constitutional adherence over speculative outcomes.
