By Benny Reyes
MANILA – A coalition of law deans and professors from different Philippine universities has warned senators that failing to proceed with the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte may carry serious legal consequences.
The lawyers and academics stated growing political tension in the Senate after the removal of Vicente Sotto III as Senate President and the election of Alan Peter Cayetano as his replacement. The reshuffle happened as the Articles of Impeachment against Duterte were expected to be transmitted to the Senate.
According to the professors, the Constitution obligates senators to convene as an impeachment court once the House formally submits the complaint endorsed by at least one-third of its members. They cited the constitutional provision stating that the “trial forthwith proceeds,” arguing that the process should move forward without unnecessary delay.
The legal experts criticized attempts to postpone or obstruct the impeachment proceedings, saying procedural maneuvers cannot override constitutional duties. They also rejected the interpretation previously raised by former Senate President Francis Escudero that the Senate could determine the timing of the trial based on its discretion.
The statement warned that public officials who ignore obligations imposed by the Constitution may be held liable for dereliction of duty. It further noted that giving unwarranted benefit or protection to an official may constitute a violation of the country’s anti-graft law, Republic Act 3019.
Among the signatories were retired justice Adolfo Azcuna, former undersecretary Antonio La Viña, and law school officials from San Beda University, Adamson University, Lyceum of the Philippines University, Holy Name University, the University of Asia and the Pacific, and Misamis University.
The group likewise commended the 257 members of the House of Representatives who backed the impeachment complaint against Duterte, saying they demonstrated political courage in supporting the measure.
The scholars also called on government authorities to cooperate with international legal proceedings related to Senator Ronald dela Rosa and the International Criminal Court.
ia/