As the Senate prepares to vote on whether to dismiss the impeachment case against Vice President Sara Duterte, progressive group Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (BAYAN) issued a scathing statement condemning the move as “a shameful betrayal of public trust” and a dangerous precedent for impunity.
The Senate is expected to decide today whether to proceed with the impeachment trial, following the Supreme Court’s ruling that declared the Articles of Impeachment unconstitutional. Despite motions for reconsideration filed by the House of Representatives and civil society groups, including 1Sambayan, the Senate appears poised to vote on dismissal.
Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa indicated that the Duterte bloc would “most likely” vote to dismiss the case, citing the Supreme Court’s decision as final and executory. Meanwhile, Minority Leader Tito Sotto and Senator Erwin Tulfo have expressed support for continuing the trial, emphasizing the public’s right to see the evidence.
In its official statement, BAYAN warned that dismissing the impeachment case would be “another win for impunity” and accused the Senate of colluding with an official “accused of pocketing ₱600 million in confidential funds.” The group criticized the chamber for allegedly sabotaging the trial and shielding Duterte from accountability.
“The Senate plan to vote against the impeachment is dishonorable, shameful, and malicious,” BAYAN said. “It disregards the public clamor for truth, accountability, and justice.”
The group also called out the hypocrisy of senators who recently decried corruption in flood control projects and government contracts, saying their indignation would ring hollow if they vote to dismiss the case.
BAYAN urged the Senate to allow prosecutors to present evidence, including opening Duterte’s bank accounts and explaining how ₱125 million was spent in just 11 days. They warned that dismissing the case would “spark public outrage, condemnation, and protests.”
“The delivery of justice is already unjustly delayed. Now the Senate appears determined to close all doors to make Duterte accountable,” the statement read.
Civil society groups led by retired Supreme Court justices have asked the High Court to issue a status quo ante order to prevent the Senate from dismissing the case prematurely. They argue that unresolved constitutional issues warrant further deliberation and oral arguments. (ZIA LUNA)
