ELEVEN business groups on Thursday are urging the Senate to fulfill its constitutional duty to convene as an impeachment court and conduct a fair, impartial, and transparent trial of Vice President Sara Duterte based on the evidence and the law.
The House of Representatives sent the articles of impeachment against Duterte to the Senate on Wednesday.
“We, the undersigned organizations, respectfully call on the Senate of the Philippines to fulfill its constitutional duty to convene as an Impeachment Court and conduct a fair, impartial, and transparent trial based on the evidence and the law,” the business groups said in a joint statement.
Under the 1987 Constitution, only the House can initiate impeachment cases and only the Senate can conduct an impeachment trial.
“This is not a discretionary political choice, but a constitutional obligation,” the business groups said in a statement.
The groups that made the statement were the Justice Reform Initiative, Alliance of Women for Action Towards Reform, AYC Consultants, Federation of Philippine Industries, Financial Executives Institute of The Philippines, Management Association of The Philippines, Makati Business Club, Movement for Restoration of Peace and Order, Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting, Shareholders’ Association of The Philippines, and Sy & Partners.
“Economic stability, investment, and long-term growth depend on credible institutions and consistent adherence to constitutional processes. When the rule of law appears subordinate to political interests, investor confidence and institutional credibility suffer,” they added.
The business groups urge the Senate to uphold their sworn duty to the constitution by convening the impeachment court without delay; ensuring a fair and credible trial; hearing the evidence of both sides; and rendering judgment solely on the basis of the constitution, the law, and the evidence.
“The legitimacy of democratic institutions rests on their consistent fidelity to constitutional mandates, especially under conditions of political pressure. We call on our senators to exercise their mandate with honor, integrity, and unwavering regard for their oath of office,” they said.
The groups warned that any refusal to convene the impeachment court, or dismiss the case without hearing the evidence, will undermine the rule of law and weaken the trust in the Senate as a key democratic institution.
