Ilocos Norte 1st District Representative Sandro Marcos announced on Monday, January 26, that he will inhibit himself from all discussions and proceedings related to the impeachment complaints filed against his father, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.
“In view of the impeachment complaints filed against President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., who is my father, I have decided to formally recuse myself from all discussions, deliberations, and proceedings of the House Committee on Rules in so far as these complaints are concerned,” Marcos said in a statement.
The younger Marcos, who chairs the influential House Committee on Rules, explained that his decision was not compelled by law but by a “higher obligation.”
“This decision is guided not by legal compulsion, but by a higher obligation—to preserve the integrity of the House of Representatives, to protect the credibility of its processes, and to uphold the public’s trust in our constitutional system,” he said.
The rules committee is tasked with referring impeachment complaints to the House Committee on Justice, a step that formally initiates the process. Marcos underscored that while House rules do not require his inhibition, leadership sometimes demands restraint.
“While I am fully aware that the rules of the House do not require my inhibition, and while I remain confident in the independence and professionalism of my colleagues, I recognize that leadership sometimes calls for restraint rather than participation. In moments that test institutions, perception matters as much as procedure,” he noted.
He emphasized that his recusal was meant to ensure fairness and protect the credibility of the process.
“My recusal ensures that no question may be raised about the fairness, objectivity, or legitimacy of the process, and that the focus remains where it properly belongs—on the Constitution, the facts, and the rule of law,” Marcos said.
The presidential son added that stepping aside was not a retreat but an affirmation of responsibility.
“I take this step not as a retreat from responsibility, but as an affirmation of it. Public office is a trust, and that trust is strengthened when those who hold power are willing to step aside to protect the institution they serve,” he said.
Marcos stressed he remains committed to his duties as House Majority Leader in other matters and expressed confidence in the independence of his colleagues.
“Our democracy is strongest when institutions are bigger than personalities, and when public servants choose principle over proximity,” he added.
Two impeachment complaints against President Marcos have so far been received by House Secretary General Cheloy Garafil—one filed by lawyer Andre de Jesus on January 19, and another lodged by militant groups on January 26.