THE Office of the Secretary General of the House of Representatives on Monday announced it has received an impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte filed by civil society groups
House Secretary General Reginald “Reggie” S. Velasco underscored the constitutional obligation of the House to act on such complaints.
“The House of Representatives is constitutionally mandated to act on any impeachment complaint filed in accordance with the 1987 Philippine Constitution,” Velasco stated.
He emphasized that the House has a duty to adhere to the processes outlined in the nation’s charter.
Velasco cited the constitutional provision stating, “A verified complaint for impeachment may be filed by any Member of the House of Representatives or by any citizen upon a resolution of endorsement by any Member thereof.”
He reiterated that these guidelines ensure fairness and adherence to due process.
“It is crucial to underscore that addressing an impeachment complaint is not a discretionary act for the House of Representatives but a constitutional obligation,” Velasco explained.
He assured the public that the institution would proceed with impartiality and respect for the rule of law.
Velasco noted the importance of impeachment proceedings in preserving public trust and upholding accountability among public officials.
“Impeachment proceedings is vital to preserve the integrity of the institution and affirming the principle that public officials are accountable to the people they serve,” he stated.
He also reaffirmed the House’s commitment to conducting these proceedings properly.
“The House of Representatives remains committed to conducting the proceedings with transparency, impartiality, and full respect for the rule of law,” Velasco added.
The Secretary General called on all parties to respect the legal processes.
“We call on all parties to allow the legal process to take its course, ensuring that truth and justice prevail,” he said.
The impeachment complaint will now be subject to the processes prescribed by the House rules. These include referral to the appropriate committee for assessment of its sufficiency in form and substance.
Velasco emphasized that the Constitution lays out clear steps for handling impeachment cases.
“The Constitution prescribes clear steps to ensure fairness and adherence to the rule of law,” he pointed out.
The Secretary General also highlighted the broader significance of these proceedings.
“This constitutional mandate is a vital function of Congress in maintaining public trust in government institutions,” he said. (
