A lawyer dismissed as questionable the motion filed by Senator Judge Bato Dela Rosa to dismiss Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment case.
The Senate convened as an impeachment court, yet tensions rose when a motion was filed before presenting evidence for the trial.
In an interview with Bombo Radyo Cauayan, human rights lawyer and former IBP President Atty. Domingo Egon Cayosa criticized Dela Rosa’s motion, stating it bypassed due process.
Cayosa explained that under the Constitution, once the impeachment case reaches the Senate, proceedings must begin promptly, allowing both the accuser and the accused to present evidence.
He emphasized that the Senate’s role as an impeachment court is a constitutional duty that cannot be dismissed arbitrarily.
Cayosa clarified that the primary function of the trial is to provide accountability and transparency regarding questionable funds linked to the Office of the Vice President and the Department of Education.
Despite a majority of Filipinos supporting the impeachment process, he noted that a lone judge had opposed it.
Despite the tensions, Cayosa viewed the convening of the impeachment court as a positive step forward.
He urged all senator-judges to uphold their constitutional oath in handling the proceedings with integrity.
While recognizing the senators’ right to express their opinions, Cayosa hoped they would remain faithful to their sworn duty under constitutional mandates.