Senator-elect Bam Aquino emphasized that evidence—not political allegiance—should guide the Senate’s decision in the upcoming impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte.
Speaking after attending the orientation for newly elected senators of the 20th Congress, Aquino stood firm on the principle that the Senate’s ruling should be based strictly on facts presented during the trial.
“I think we should rule based on the evidence,” Aquino said.
“Our duty is to look at the evidence and make a decision based on it — not to decide before seeing the evidence. That’s the most important thing. That’s our responsibility. And that applies to me, and to everyone.”
He further urged fellow senators to uphold impartiality throughout the trial process.
“Let’s wait for the process, look at the evidence, and make a decision based on the evidence — not based on your political affiliation,” he added.
Aquino, who finished second in the recently concluded 2025 midterm elections, is set to serve as one of the senator-judges once the impeachment proceedings formally begin.