Gerville Luistro, Batangas 2nd District Representative and chairperson of the House Committee on Justice, assured the public that Congress remains focused on its legislative responsibilities even as it handles impeachment complaints against Vice President Sara Duterte.
In her opening remarks during the March 25 proceedings, Luistro emphasized continuity in public service.
“Kahit may impeachment, tuloy ang serbisyo,” Luistro said. “Ang ating serbisyo publiko ay hindi napuputol, hindi tumitigil—kahit sa gitna ng pinakamabigat na tungkulin.”
Her statement came amid criticism that lawmakers were prioritizing impeachment over urgent national concerns, particularly the ongoing oil crisis.
Luistro noted that Congress has already passed key measures, including an emergency power bill granting President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. the authority to suspend or reduce excise taxes on fuel.
She also highlighted other legislative initiatives such as reforms in digital governance, public service efficiency, and the education sector, along with programs like the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act and the Residential Merit Scholarship Program.
“We also continue to work on measures that address inflation, food security, and social services,” Luistro said.
Despite this, she underscored that Congress cannot set aside its constitutional duty to act on impeachment complaints.
“Governance is a constant balancing act—attending to urgent needs, while fulfilling constitutional obligations,” she noted.
“While we scrutinize those in power, we do not lose sight of the hardships faced by the powerless,” Luistro added.