MANILA – Prominent law professors and deans from several Philippine universities warned Monday that senators who attempt to stop or delay the impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte could face administrative and criminal accountability.
In a strongly worded statement, the legal scholars said the Constitution clearly mandates the Senate to proceed with an impeachment trial once the House of Representatives transmits Articles of Impeachment endorsed by at least one-third of its members.
The group pointed to Article XI, Section 3 of the Constitution, stressing that the phrase “trial forthwith proceeds” means the process should continue immediately and without political obstruction.
Their statement was released amid controversy surrounding the recent Senate leadership change that saw Alan Peter Cayetano take over from Vicente Sotto III as Senate President. The change happened on the same day impeachment articles against Duterte were expected to reach the Senate.
The professors accused some lawmakers of trying to derail the proceedings through procedural delays and criticized former Senate chief Francis Escudero for suggesting that the Senate could choose when to start the trial. According to the scholars, such an interpretation goes against both the wording and spirit of the Constitution.
They further argued that failure by public officials to carry out constitutional obligations may amount to dereliction of duty. The statement added that extending “undue advantage” to an individual who is not entitled to it could violate Republic Act 3019, also known as the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.
The statement was signed by several legal experts, including retired Supreme Court Justice Adolfo Azcuna, former environment official Antonio La Viña, and San Beda law dean Fr. Ranhilio Callangan Aquino, along with professors and deans from other universities nationwide.
The legal scholars also praised the 257 House lawmakers who approved the impeachment complaint, calling their decision a courageous stand.
They likewise urged Philippine officials to cooperate with international legal proceedings involving Senator Ronald dela Rosa in relation to the International Criminal Court investigation.
