MANILA, Philippines — House prosecution panel lead prosecutor and Batangas 2nd District Representative Gerville Luistro urged senator-judges to set aside Vice President Sara Duterte’s standing in public opinion polls and evaluate her upcoming impeachment case strictly on the basis of evidence and the law.
Speaking during a television interview on Thursday, November 5, Luistro acknowledged that political figures naturally monitor survey ratings, but emphasized that an impeachment court operates under a distinct constitutional responsibility.
“The surveys are significant. As a matter of fact, I wish to believe that political personalities like the senators are sensitive to survey,” Luistro said.
Despite acknowledging Duterte’s continued popularity among voters, Luistro stressed that public sentiment should not dictate how the tribunal weighs the allegations or determines the admissibility of evidence.
“So I think the people, especially the senator-judges, should realize the difference between the result of the survey and their constitutional duty to decide on this impeachment case, no?” she added.
Addressing public discontent surrounding President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and current economic challenges, Luistro noted that the proceedings are often viewed through a political lens. However, she maintained that the case against Duterte—who shifted from a Marcos ally to a vocal critic—must be handled independently from the administration’s political standing.
Luistro also pushed back against perceptions tying the House prosecutors to the executive branch, clarifying that the panel derives its mandate directly from the House of Representatives.
“Even us, we should not be identified with the administration. We were elected by the members of the House,” she stated.