HOUSE Committee on Human Rights chairman Bienvenido “Benny” Abante Jr. on Thursday expressed deep concern over the Senate’s decision to archive the impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte, calling it a “dangerous precedent” that weakens the constitutional process of accountability.
“The Senate’s action sends the wrong message: that accountability may be set aside. That should never be the case in a democracy governed by laws,” Abante said.
Abante warned that public officials may now be emboldened to ignore questions of propriety or legality—especially if they enjoy political popularity or are seen as future contenders for higher office.
“The impeachment process is not about 2028. It is about whether public funds were used during a time when no legal mandate had yet been conferred to an office. That is a clear question of constitutional integrity—not political ambition,” Abante emphasized.
Abante also took issue with how some senators appeared to dismiss the complaint as politically motivated without addressing the substance of the allegations.
“Impeachment is not a political circus. It is a constitutional mechanism designed to hold high officials accountable. When we reduce it to mere political noise, we erode the very institutions we swore to uphold,” he said.
He underscored that the House of Representatives followed due process and acted within its constitutional authority when it transmitted the complaint to the Senate, having secured the required one-third vote of all Members.
“The House did not weaponize impeachment—we exercised it in accordance with the Constitution. The question before us was not ‘Who wants to run in 2028?’ but ‘Were public funds used in a manner that requires accountability?’” Abante asked.
He stressed that the public, especially the youth, deserves a better example from those in power.
“What are we teaching the next generation? That popularity shields you from accountability? That ambition is more important than truth?” Abante asked.
While respecting the Senate’s institutional prerogative, Abante said the matter is far from over, as the House prosecution panel has filed a motion for reconsideration before the Supreme Court (SC).
“This fight for truth is not yet over. The legal process continues, and more importantly, so does the public’s judgment,” Abante said. (END)
