The Sandiganbayan's decision to deny Senator Jinggoy Estrada's request to attend the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte serves as a powerful reminder that the enforcement of the law should not be based on the status, rank, or influence of a government official.
Impeachment is a process of great constitutional value. It is one of the most serious mechanisms for holding high-ranking officials accountable. The Sandiganbayan made it clear that Estrada's request did not fall under the limited exemptions allowed for detainees. It was not an emergency, nor a valid reason for temporary release from prison.
Preventive detention and equal justice
Preventive detention is not a punishment but a legal means to protect the integrity of the justice process. If an accused can easily be released because he is a senator or because of a significant government event, what would an ordinary citizen with no power, influence, or connections feel? Justice cannot have two standards—one for the powerful and one for the ordinary Filipino. The court must remain firm in enforcing the law, even if the affected party is a well-known personality or a high-ranking official.
Presumption of innocence remains
On the other hand, Estrada should not be prejudged in the case he is facing. He is still in the justice process and has the right to defend himself. However, until the trial is completed, he must also respect the limitations set by the court.
