Senator Erwin Tulfo emphasized that the Senate should not allow the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte to halt the passage of crucial bills and the conduct of investigations. Speaking on July 5, 2026, Tulfo acknowledged the senators' role as senator-judges in the impeachment proceedings but stressed that other responsibilities, especially those directly impacting the livelihood and welfare of Filipinos, must not be neglected.
Balancing duties as impeachment court and legislature
Tulfo argued that the Senate must simultaneously fulfill its functions as an impeachment court and as a legislative body. He highlighted several priority measures he intends to push, including the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) Act, amendments to the Oil Deregulation Law, a bill creating a Philippine Petroleum Reserve, and a review of the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act. According to Tulfo, many laws still need to be passed to address public concerns, so legislative work should not stop while the impeachment trial proceeds.
Investigations must continue
The senator also called for the continuation of Senate investigations, including hearings on alleged anomalies in flood control projects and the widespread cutting of trees and earth-balling in Palawan. He underscored the need to review the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act and the Anti-Bullying Act due to the rising number of crimes involving minors.
Public's right to accountability and legislation
Tulfo stated that the public has the right to hold government officials accountable through an impeachment trial, but they also have the right to expect the Senate to continue its work in passing laws that improve their daily lives. He said, "The Senate must not be paralyzed by the impeachment trial. We have a duty to the people to ensure that both accountability and legislation move forward."
