“We will allow the process to take its course fairly, lawfully, and transparently. The House of Representatives will do its duty,” declared Speaker Faustino “Bojie” G. Dy III on Monday, setting the tone for the opening of deliberations by the House Committee on Justice on four verified impeachment complaints against Vice President Sara Z. Duterte.
In a statement, Dy emphasized that the proceedings now underway are not political spectacle but the formal exercise of a constitutional responsibility vested in the House.
He noted that the role of the Committee on Justice at this stage is clearly defined, which is to determine whether the complaints are sufficient in form and substance in accordance with the Constitution and House rules.
“As Speaker of the House, I want to be clear about one thing: this is a constitutional process. It is not a political performance, and it is not a venue for trial by publicity,” Dy said.
“That responsibility rests primarily with the Committee on Justice, under the leadership of Chairperson Gerville Luistro. The committee has been properly notified, and the proceedings will follow established House rules,” he added.
The Speaker from Isabela emphasized that the proceedings transcend personalities and partisan interests.
“Let me emphasize: impeachment is not about personalities. It is about institutions. It is not about taking sides. It is about upholding the Constitution,” he said.
He also stressed that fairness and due process must govern every step.
“Every elected official, including the Vice President, deserves fairness, due process, and the presumption that allegations must be examined carefully and judiciously,” Dy said.
“At the same time, complainants who have invoked a constitutional mechanism are entitled to have their filings addressed in accordance with the law,” he added.
The House chief made clear that he will not interfere with the committee’s deliberations.
“My role as Speaker is not to pre-judge the outcome, nor to influence the committee’s deliberations. My responsibility is to ensure that the House functions with professionalism, order, and fidelity to the Constitution,” he said.
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