House impeachment spokesperson and Kabataan Rep. Renee Co said Vice President Sara Duterte should answer the allegations against her before the Senate impeachment court instead of seeking the immediate dismissal of the case.
Co made the statement after Duterte submitted her reply to the impeachment articles filed against her.
The lawmaker said the Vice President’s response relied heavily on procedural arguments, which she claimed should not prevent the trial from proceeding.
“Una sa lahat, hindi nilitis si VP Sara sa House. Gaya ng pagkakaiba sa pagharap sa piskal at korte, magkaiba ang trial sa probable cause hearings. Hindi puwedeng isantabi na lang ang ebidensya nang hindi pinapasadahan ito. Kung may sagot sila sa ebidensya, iharap nila sa paglilitis. It is her Constitutional duty to see the process through,” Co said.
Co said the public deserves a full hearing where the evidence can be presented and the Vice President can formally respond to the accusations.
“The people want and deserve accountability. Gusto na nilang matuloy ang hearing na ito at malaman kung totoo ang mga alegasyon. Hindi uubra na sabihin niya sa Senado na huwag nang mag-trial at dismiss na agad ang kaso,” she added.
She also urged the public to closely follow the proceedings, saying accountability depends on continued public vigilance.
“Now is not the time to remain silent. Accountability is possible when we demand change from our institutions,” Co said.