The House Committee on Justice stood by its unanimous finding of probable cause against Vice President Sara Duterte and said it is ready to defend the decision as the impeachment process moves forward.
Committee chair Batangas 2nd District Rep. Gerville Luistro said the panel is now shifting from evaluating evidence to defending its determination, which could lead to a Senate trial if affirmed by the House plenary.
“The Justice Committee has taken a stand—and that is for probable cause,” Luistro said. “From here, our duty is to defend that determination.”
She said the panel’s mandate was limited to assessing the evidence, noting that the unanimous vote reflected the outcome of that review.
Luistro also denied claims of external pressure on lawmakers or staff to support the impeachment process.
“In my case, I have not encountered any calls or pressure regarding this,” she said.
Addressing legal challenges, Luistro said the committee anticipated such moves from the outset, including petitions before the Supreme Court and criminal complaints against some members.
She stressed that the process will continue unless halted by the courts.
“As long as there is no temporary restraining order or injunction, we will proceed with our constitutional duty,” she said.