Akbayan Partylist Representative Perci Cendaña acknowledged that changes in Senate leadership could potentially affect the impeachment case against Vice President Sara Duterte. In an interview with Bombo Radyo, Cendaña said it is not unlikely that any shift in leadership could impact the proceedings, as senators will serve as senator-judges once the impeachment court convenes.
Concerns Over Political Interference
Cendaña noted that some lawmakers who had long been absent suddenly attended sessions solely for the impeachment voting. He emphasized that political considerations should not sway the commitment to hold accountable officials believed to have misused public funds. He appealed to senators to act in accordance with their duty and not base their votes on personal ties to the Dutertes.
Lessons from the 19th Congress
Furthermore, Cendaña warned that the failures of the previous 19th Congress should not be repeated. That Congress, he said, failed to fulfill its duty in prosecuting the impeachment case due to neglected responsibilities and delayed compliance with the Constitution. He stressed the importance of upholding constitutional processes and ensuring that justice is served without partisan interference.
