Senate bows to SC ruling halting VP Duterte impeachment

The Senate, acting as an Impeachment Court, has affirmed its respect for the Supreme Court’s ruling that declared the impeachment complaints against Vice President Sara Duterte unconstitutional.

In a statement Friday, Senate Impeachment Court spokesperson Atty. Regie Tongol said the decision validates the chamber’s cautious stance in holding off proceedings until legal uncertainties were clarified.

“The Senate, sitting as an Impeachment Court, has always acted in deference to the Constitution and the rule of law. As a co-equal branch of government, we are duty-bound to respect the finality of rulings issued by the High Court,” Tongol said.

He added that the decision supports the Senate majority’s earlier call for restraint, amid concerns over the legal basis of the complaint.

“We now await the formal transmittal of the Supreme Court’s decision and any related guidance that may affect the Impeachment Court’s jurisdiction moving forward,” Tongol added.

Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada welcomed the ruling, saying it reinforces the principle that holding public officials accountable must follow legal procedures.

“Even in a political process like impeachment, we must adhere to due process to ensure that our actions are not arbitrary or politically motivated,” Estrada said. He added that with the issue resolved, the Senate can now refocus on urgent matters such as typhoon recovery.

Senator Imee Marcos urged her colleagues to move on and return to work. “Galangin at respetuhin ang desisyon ng Korte Suprema. Sa mga kasamahan kong senador—trabaho na tayo! ‘Wag na mamulitika,” she said.

Senator Joel Villanueva echoed the Senate’s stand for prudence and constitutional order, while Senator Risa Hontiveros expressed concern over the SC’s “abrupt” move. She pointed out that the ruling does not exonerate the Vice President and leaves room for another complaint next year.

Senator Bam Aquino agreed, insisting the impeachment trial should have continued, and emphasized the Senate’s mandate as a co-equal branch of government.

The Supreme Court decision effectively halts all impeachment proceedings against Vice President Duterte, unless a new complaint is filed in the future.