MAKATI CITY — Senator Panfilo “Ping” Lacson on Saturday emphasized that the ongoing impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte must culminate in a fair ruling based strictly on evidence rather than political considerations.
Speaking during the 65th anniversary celebration of the Philippine Constitution Association, Lacson noted that an objective, fact-based verdict would help resolve ongoing political tensions.
”A fair decision will bring stability to the country… As long as the decision is fair and based on evidence as presented without any political color, then it will bring stability to the country,” Lacson said.
The veteran lawmaker cautioned the public against jumping to conclusions, emphasizing that the defense has not yet presented its side.
”Hindi pa complete, kasi the defense has not yet presented their evidence. We only hear one side of the story. We need to hear the other side,” Lacson said.
As the Senate impeachment court prepares to continue its proceedings into October, Lacson insisted that the final determination must uphold constitutional standards and factual proof, rather than succumbing to public sentiment or political influence.
Expanding his speech to address broader public governance, Lacson cited the constitutional principle that public office is a public trust, encouraging upright officials to welcome public scrutiny.
”If your decisions are proper, let the records speak; if your actions are lawful, let the evidence establish it; if your conscience is clear, scrutiny should not frighten you. In fact, the honest public servant should be able to say: ‘Go ahead. Audit me,’” Lacson said.
He further cautioned against dismissing official inquiries as mere political attacks.
”The person who fears accountability, however, may have a different reaction. He or she may say, ‘Why single me out?’ Someone would even cry, ‘This is political persecution and intimidation and pressure’ — which, by the way, sounds very familiar,” Lacson said.
The remarks appeared aimed at Senate Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano, following their ongoing disputes over alleged infrastructure and reclamation irregularities in Taguig City.
Lacson previously submitted documentation to the Office of the Ombudsman detailing alleged unrecorded projects, duplicate funding, and unauthorized reclamation activities along Laguna Lake—allegations that Cayetano has denied while accusing Lacson of targeting Taguig..