MANILA – The Palace on Thursday underscored that the House Committee on Justice based its decision to find probable cause for the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte on evidence and testimonies gathered during its hearings.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro, speaking at a media briefing, said the issue is within Congress’ jurisdiction, pointing out that lawmakers reached their conclusion after examining documents and listening to witnesses presented in the inquiry.
She noted that the panel’s decision reflects the findings and observations made throughout the hearings, indicating that their vote was supported by the information brought before them.
The House justice panel on Wednesday unanimously approved the finding of probable cause against Duterte.
This followed the filing of two impeachment complaints citing allegations such as misuse of government funds, corruption, betrayal of public trust, and threats against the First Family.
The committee consolidated the complaints into one Articles of Impeachment, which will be submitted to the full House for consideration.
A vote of at least one-third of the House membership is needed to impeach the Vice President, after which the case will proceed to a Senate trial.
Castro also reacted to statements raised during the hearings, including supposed threats involving President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos.
Earlier, the National Bureau of Investigation disclosed that a person allegedly contacted by Duterte in relation to an alleged assassination attempt might be linked to the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
Still, Castro said the President continues to express full trust in the AFP and stressed that those mentioned in the investigation should not be prejudged, as due process must be respected.
ia/xf
