A group of civic leaders is proposing the formation of a “people’s court” that would examine evidence and developments if the impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte advances to a Senate trial.
Jaime Regalario of Kilusang Makabansang Ekonomiya said the proposed panel would consist of retired justices, clergy and representatives from the academic community.
During a forum in Quezon City on March 21, Regalario said discussions are already underway with church leaders about organizing the initiative.
He explained that the public tribunal would conduct its own sessions parallel to the Senate’s proceedings, potentially even outside the legislative complex.
The group intends to gather copies of evidence revealed during the trial and present these to the public for independent evaluation.
Regalario said the initiative is designed to give citizens a clearer understanding of the case and encourage participation from various sectors of society.
“Our goal is transparency. The people deserve to know the facts and assess them,” he said.
He added that the group hopes to involve former members of the judiciary, including a retired chief justice, to help guide the discussions.
Regalario rejected criticisms that the plan might function as a “kangaroo court,” saying the aim is simply to ensure that the public remains informed about the impeachment process.
“If the Senate performs its role properly, then the truth will come out. But if there are shortcomings, the people must have a way to raise their voices,” he said.
Meanwhile, lawyer Dino de Leon, who is part of the complainants’ legal team, said more documentary evidence may soon be disclosed.
He said subpoenas could be issued to certain officials since impeachment proceedings allow investigators to access financial records that are usually protected by bank secrecy laws.
According to De Leon, documents such as reports from the Anti-Money Laundering Council may be presented to support the allegations.
“If these financial transactions are confirmed, the Vice President will need to prove their legitimacy. Otherwise, they could become grounds for conviction,” he said.
De Leon urged the public to focus on the evidence rather than political loyalties.
ia/xf
