Lawmakers from progressive parties criticized the Supreme Court’s recent decision to strike down the impeachment case against Vice President Sara Duterte, calling the move unconstitutional and dangerous.
Akbayan Partylist Representative Chel Diokno said the impeachment complaint followed the correct constitutional process: it was verified, endorsed by over one-third of House members, and filed as a single case. He maintained that the move respected due process and aimed only to present the truth to the Filipino people.
Representative Perci Cendana echoed Diokno’s concern, saying the ruling turned the Supreme Court into the “Supreme Coddler,” suggesting it was now acting as a protector of Duterte. He warned this precedent could allow corrupt politicians to hide behind the judiciary and avoid accountability.
Mamamayang Liberal Partylist Representative Leila De Lima questioned the legality of the ruling. She pointed out that the House of Representatives—the main respondent—was not given a chance to respond formally, as required under Rule 65, Section 6 of the Rules of Court.
Instead of directing the House to file a comment, the Court issued a written interrogatory, which De Lima said was treated as a formal responsive pleading without proper due process.
All three lawmakers argued that the Supreme Court’s move not only weakens public trust but also shields powerful officials from facing legitimate scrutiny.
