By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — Lead House prosecutor and Batangas Rep. Gerville Luistro on Monday underscored that the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte is not merely a political exercise but a constitutional process aimed at safeguarding public funds and ensuring government accountability.
Opening the prosecution’s case before the Senate impeachment court, Luistro said many Filipinos have questioned the significance of the proceedings amid rising living costs and economic challenges. She stressed, however, that the trial directly affects every taxpayer because it centers on the alleged misuse of public funds entrusted to government officials.
“The money being discussed in this trial belongs to the Filipino people,” Luistro said. “This case is about protecting their trust and affirming their right to demand accountability from those who hold public office.”
She cited the daily struggles of ordinary citizens—from public utility drivers trying to support their families to teachers weighed down by financial obligations—saying their concerns make accountability in government even more essential.
According to Luistro, public servants at every level are expected to account for government funds, regardless of the amount involved. She argued that the same, if not stricter, standards should apply to the nation’s highest-ranking officials.
“If rank-and-file employees can be investigated and sanctioned for mishandling public funds, then those occupying the highest offices should be held to the same level of responsibility,” she said.
Luistro emphasized that the impeachment trial is not intended to punish a political opponent but to determine whether constitutional accountability has been upheld.
“This proceeding is not about revenge or political victory,” she said. “It is about ensuring that no public official is beyond the reach of the Constitution.”
Following the opening session, Luistro described the start of the impeachment trial as a victory for the Filipino people, despite the Senate impeachment court denying the prosecution’s motion to immediately arraign Duterte.
“The trial has finally begun after months of waiting. That alone is already a victory for accountability and for the people,” she told reporters.
Earlier in the proceedings, the prosecution sought Duterte’s arraignment, arguing that Senate impeachment rules permitted the move. However, the Senate impeachment court denied the request after the Vice President’s legal team maintained that she was already properly represented by counsel.
Duterte is facing four Articles of Impeachment approved by the House of Representatives. The charges include the alleged misuse and irregular disbursement of confidential funds under the Office of the Vice President and the Department of Education, alleged unexplained wealth, alleged bribery and procurement-related violations, and accusations involving grave threats, constitutional violations, and betrayal of public trust.
The House transmitted the Articles of Impeachment to the Senate after 257 lawmakers voted in favor of the measure, with 25 voting against and nine abstaining, formally setting the stage for the historic impeachment trial.
ia/xf
