The impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte centers on enforcing public accountability, not on who presides over the proceedings, according to the lead House prosecutor.
The trial, set to be heard by the Senate sitting as an impeachment court, addresses four Articles of Impeachment transmitted by the House. Lead prosecutor and Batangas Rep. Gerville Luistro emphasized that the case is a constitutional mechanism to ensure public officials uphold their duties and remain accountable to citizens.
The lead prosecutor stressed that questions about the presiding officer or individual senators should not overshadow the purpose of the trial. She underscored that the impeachment process is not about acquittal or conviction alone, but about maintaining the integrity of democratic accountability.
“Whether it is any senator presiding, we express our faith and confidence in this accountability mechanism,” Luistro said, adding that past impeachment proceedings should not be used to judge current roles.
The House prosecution team affirmed its commitment to the Constitution and to the interests of the public, noting that preparing for the trial involves enduring scrutiny, pressure, and rigorous work. “We are here to stand for accountability and for the interest of every Filipino across the world,” the House lead prosecutor said.
The statement highlighted that the impeachment is a fundamental part of the country’s democratic system, designed to uphold transparency and responsibility in public office.