Any political arrangement between Vice President Sara Z. Duterte and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. must not come at the expense of accountability, transparency and the truth behind the allegations raised against her, a spokesman for the House prosecution panel warned.
Former Surigao del Norte Rep. Ace Barbers issued the statement following unverified reports that Duterte had sought a private meeting with Marcos to negotiate her resignation in exchange for clearing her path to run in the 2028 presidential elections.
Speculation circulated online suggesting a potential deal where Duterte would step down from her post while preserving her right to seek the presidency in 2028.
However, Malacañang stated it could not confirm whether Duterte had requested a private meeting, though it emphasized that Marcos remains open to dialogue with anyone.
Speaking on the matter, Barbers stressed that no political agreement should override the public’s right to answers.
“Hindi dapat masakripisyo ang sinasabi nating accountability, transparency at ‘yung katotohanan sa likod nitong mga alegasyon na ito,” Barbers said.
The prosecution panel maintained that even if Duterte resigns, the impeachment trial must proceed, noting that the proceedings carry the penalty of perpetual disqualification from holding public office.
“I don’t know how it’s going to happen, pero sa aking pananaw, napakaimportanteng malaman ng ating mga kababayan kung ano ba ‘yung nasa likod o katotohanan sa likod nitong usaping ito,” Barbers added.
Barbers emphasized that the charges against the Vice President can no longer be dismissed as mere political rhetoric, given that the prosecution has already begun presenting evidence before the Senate sitting as an Impeachment Court.
“Hindi naman pwedeng itong allegations na ito ay puro haka-haka lamang. Dahil meron naman pong ebidensyang ipinrisenta ang ating prosecution,” he said.
At the same time, Barbers clarified that he had no personal knowledge or official confirmation regarding any proposed meeting between Duterte and the President.
“Well, ako, honestly, hindi ko pa naririnig yan,” Barbers said. “Wala akong alam tungkol diyan sa usapin na ‘yan.”