MANILA, Philippines — The House of Representatives' Prosecution Team heard Mass for "truth, justice and accountability" on Thursday ahead of the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte on Monday.
The Mass was celebrated at the Chapel of the Nativity of the Immaculate Conception Cathedral in Cubao, Quezon City and was organized by the Clergy for Good Governance led by convenor Fr. Robert Reyes.
It was attended by Lead prosecutor and Rep. Gervillev Luistro, House Committee on Justice chairman, and prosecutors Reps. Leila de Lima, Lorenz Defensor, Joel Chua, Ysabel Maria Zamora, and Kaka Bag-ao.
Private prosecutors Lorna Kapunan and Marforth Pua were also in attendance.
The Mass was officiated by Fr. Bong Sarabia, one of the complainants of Duterte's impeachment case, alongside Fathers Niño Etulle, Choi Gliponeo, Raul Enriquez and Manoling Francisco. Msgr. Mel David delivered the homily.
“Gampanan ninyo nang buong tapang, ngunit tapang na hindi nanggagaling sa kaibuturan lamang ng inyong puso, kundi katapangan na nagmumula sa puso ng ating Panginoon (Carry out your duties with courage—but not a courage that comes merely from within your own heart. Rather, let it be the courage that comes from the heart of our Lord)—the heart that constantly beats with love for the poor, love for the truth, love for justice, and love for peace.” David said.
He also prayed that God would provide the prosecution team throughout the trial and beyond, expressing hope they would one day be recognized as “faithful and trusted servants” for fulfilling their duty with integrity and fidelity to truth.
Luistro responded by saying that they were drawing their strength from the support of Filipinos despite its own limitations.
“We acknowledge our limitations. We acknowledge our imperfections. We acknowledge all our insufficiencies. But let me tell you, my dear brothers and sisters, all your prayers overpower them. All your support overpower them," Luistro said.
She also called on Filipinos not to pray for them but also for the Defense, the senator-judges and the country
