House Speaker Faustino Dy III on Monday underscored that the impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte must remain a constitutional process and not devolve into political theatrics.
The House Committee on Justice has begun deliberations on the impeachment complaints filed against Duterte, marking the start of what could be an extended battle in the chamber.
“As Speaker of the House, I want to be clear about one thing: This is a constitutional process. It is not a political performance, and it is not a venue for trial by publicity,” Dy said.
“We will allow the process to take its course fairly, lawfully, and transparently. The House of Representatives will do its duty,” he added.
Dy explained that at this stage, the justice committee—chaired by Batangas 2nd District Rep. Gerville Luistro—is tasked only with determining whether the complaints are sufficient in form and substance under the Constitution and House rules.
“The committee has been properly notified, and the proceedings will follow established House rules,” he said.
The Speaker emphasized that impeachment should rise above partisan politics.
“Impeachment is not about personalities. It is about institutions. It is not about taking sides. It is about upholding the Constitution,” Dy said.
He stressed that both the Vice President and the complainants are entitled to fairness and due process.
“Every elected official, including the Vice President, deserves fairness, due process, and the presumption that allegations must be examined carefully and judiciously. At the same time, complainants who have invoked a constitutional mechanism are entitled to have their filings addressed in accordance with the law,” he noted.
Dy clarified that he would not interfere in the committee’s work.
“My role as Speaker is not to pre-judge the outcome, nor to influence the committee’s deliberations. My responsibility is to ensure that the House functions with professionalism, order, and fidelity to the Constitution,” he said.