Iloilo 3rd District Representative Lorenz Defensor said Wednesday that Vice President Sara Duterte’s announcement of her 2028 presidential run may reshape political alliances but will not disrupt the constitutional process surrounding impeachment complaints filed against her.
“It’s a strategic decision to strengthen her following. Lalo na may mga impeachment complaints na nakahain laban sa kanya. Mabuti din sa kanya para malaman niya kung sino talaga ang mga kakampi niya, kung sino ang hindi niya mga kakampi,” Defensor told reporters in an ambush interview following Duterte’s announcement.
“I hope that we will be as independent as possible. Mas mabuti na ‘yung malaman ng mga tao. We are doing our constitutional duty in processing the impeachment complaints,” he added, stressing that the complaints will still follow the normal route in the House of Representatives.
Defensor explained that the complaints will be referred to the Committee on Justice to determine whether they are sufficient in form and substance.
“It will not affect how the process will go on in terms of hearing it, in terms of deliberations in the Committee on Justice,” he said.
“I can assure you that as far as the Committee on Justice is concerned that chairman and its members will be objective in hearing and deliberating the impeachment complaints based on the Constitution.”
He also dismissed suggestions that Duterte’s presidential bid could pressure lawmakers.
“No, hindi naman pinipigilan. I don’t see any reason to say na may pumipigil o may nag-influence,” Defensor said.
Still, he acknowledged the political reality facing House members as the 2028 elections approach.
For now, Defensor does not see enough support for the immediate elevation of the complaints to the Senate.
“As of right now, as of today, I cannot see getting one-third of endorsements from the members of the House of Representatives. But I can tell you right now that aabot ito sa Committee on Justice,” he said.