The Franciscans of the Province of San Pedro Bautista have expressed profound concern over recent political developments in the Philippine Senate.
They labeled the replacement of Senate President Vicente Sotto III with Senator Alan Peter Cayetano as a 'grave betrayal of public trust,' suggesting the move aims to protect vested interests and shield Vice President Sara Duterte.
The leadership shift on May 11 occurred simultaneously with the House of Representatives' expected vote on articles of impeachment against Duterte, who has announced plans to run for president in 2028.
The House impeached the vice president with a vote of 257-25, prompting the articles to be endorsed to the Senate for trial.
However, the Senate's ousting of Sotto, who had committed to convening as an impeachment court, raised alarms.
Fr. Lino Gregorio Redoblado, Minister Provincial of the Franciscans, emphasized the moral implications of these actions.
This is not merely politics. This is a moral issue. This is a question of truth.
Fr. Lino Gregorio Redoblado, OFM
In his statement, Redoblado highlighted the importance of accountability for public officials. He stated that obstructing the impeachment process for political reasons compromises democratic foundations.
Redoblado urged that the Senate's role should be to uphold truth and justice, not to protect political dynasties.
The Franciscans also warned against a growing culture of impunity, stressing that silence and compromise among officials could normalize abuse of power.