House Speaker Martin Romualdez expressed strong concern over the Senate impeachment court’s decision to return the Articles of Impeachment against Vice President Sara Duterte to the House of Representatives.
In a speech delivered Wednesday night, Romualdez described the move as “deeply concerning,” stating, “I rise, not in defiance, but with resolve, guided by duty, grounded in principle. The decision of the Senate to return the articles of impeachment is deeply concerning.”
Despite his criticism, Romualdez emphasized that the House would still comply with the requirements set by the Senate impeachment court to ensure that the proceedings continue. “In matters of truth and accountability, the House does not back down,” he added.
The House had already adopted House Resolution No. 2346, certifying that the February 5 impeachment against VP Sara complied fully with the 1987 Constitution, including a detailed account of the filing of the first three complaints.
On Wednesday, the House also voted to defer acceptance of the returned articles until the Senate responds to clarification requests made by the House Prosecution Panel. This came after the Senate, without dismissing the case, returned the articles to ensure compliance with constitutional provisions and to confirm the 20th Congress’s readiness to pursue the complaint.
The Senate’s action, supported by 18 senators including Senate President Chiz Escudero, drew dissent from Minority Leader Koko Pimentel, Senators Hontiveros, Poe, Gatchalian, and Binay, who voted against the move.