The House Committee on Justice has assured that Vice President Sara Duterte will be given the opportunity to present evidence in response to allegations raised in impeachment complaints filed against her.
Committee chairperson and Batangas 2nd District Representative Gerville Luistro said the House of Representatives is committed to observing due process and ensuring that Duterte is allowed to defend herself during the proceedings.
“As far as we are concerned, we are giving full due process, including the opportunity to present evidence to counter the impeachment complaint and its supporting evidence,” Luistro said.
Despite petitions filed by Duterte’s camp before the Supreme Court seeking to halt the proceedings, Luistro said the hearings will continue as scheduled while the tribunal awaits the Court’s action.
“We manifested that at any point in time of the impeachment proceeding, the Vice President is welcome to present her evidence to counter the impeachment complaint, including its attachments,” he added.
Luistro said hearings are set on April 14, 22, and 29, stressing that the committee remains guided by the Constitution, existing laws, and Supreme Court rulings.
“So we intend to do this in all the hearings of this impeachment complaint, which includes this coming April 14, 22, and 29,” he said.
He also noted that the issues surrounding the complaints have been pending since 2024, emphasizing public expectation for clarity and accountability.
“I think it’s quite lamenting, kasi ang tagal na nito. All the issues started in 2024… For a couple of times already, I believe that the Filipino people are expecting answers from the Vice President,” Luistro added.