The ongoing impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte has raised significant concerns regarding its adherence to the principles of accountability and transparency. As the trial progresses, it has become evident that the Senate is adopting courtroom-like procedures, straying from the political essence of impeachment.
Impeachment: A Political Process, Not a Judicial One
Impeachment is democracy’s way of demanding an accounting. It answers to the people, not the Rules of Court.
Tony La Viña, Legal Expert
The trial commenced on July 6, 2026, with the Senate donning judicial robes and employing legal jargon. This approach has drawn criticism for misrepresenting the nature of impeachment, which should serve as a mechanism for public accountability rather than a standard legal proceeding.
The impeachment process, as outlined in Article XI of the Constitution, is fundamentally about assessing an official's suitability to serve. It does not seek to impose criminal penalties but rather to determine if a public official should remain in office.
Despite this, the trial has adopted a formalistic approach that mirrors criminal proceedings. For example, the presiding officer, Senator Chiz Escudero, has been selected based on his legal background, which further entrenches the courtroom mentality.
The trial's initial hearings have demonstrated a reliance on technical objections and lengthy legal arguments, detracting from the substantive issues at stake. The focus has shifted from the allegations against Duterte to procedural disputes, mirroring past impeachment trials that have been bogged down by legalistic hurdles.
The public's response has reflected this discontent, with many expressing frustration at the spectacle overshadowing the fundamental questions of accountability and governance.
To restore the integrity of the impeachment process, the Senate must shift its focus. This includes simplifying rules, emphasizing the political nature of the trial, and ensuring that the proceedings remain accessible to the public.
Ultimately, the legitimacy of the impeachment process relies on the public's engagement and understanding. A trial that becomes overly complex risks alienating the very citizens it is meant to serve. The Senate must correct its course to ensure that accountability remains the centerpiece of this critical democratic process.