The House prosecution panel will not allow any pressure group to dictate the course of the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, according to House prosecution spokesperson and Lanao del Sur Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong.
Constitutional mandate over external influence
Adiong emphasized that the panel's mandate is rooted in the Constitution and the evidence to be presented before the Senate, which serves as the impeachment court, and not on the positions of those who support or oppose the impeachment.
“Matagal nang may umiiral na pressure mula sa magkabilang panig, ngunit mananatiling nakatuon ang prosecution sa pagpapatuloy ng proseso ng pananagutan na itinakda ng Konstitusyon,” Adiong said, noting that pressures have long existed from both sides but the prosecution remains committed to the accountability process set by the Constitution.
Trial set to begin July 6
The Senate is scheduled to start the trial on July 6, after the release of the pretrial order and the completion of preparations for the case. Adiong stressed that the prosecution will present its evidence and allow the impeachment process to move forward until the trial concludes.
The House prosecution panel is composed of lawmakers who will argue the case against Vice President Duterte before the Senate. The impeachment complaint accuses Duterte of various alleged offenses, though specific details were not reiterated by Adiong.
Adiong’s statement comes amid reports of lobbying and public pressure from various groups, including supporters of the Vice President and advocates of the impeachment. He assured that the panel will remain independent and focused on its constitutional duty.
