Oil Crisis Not a Reason to Set Aside Impeachment vs. VP Sara – Rep. Adiong
House Assistant Majority Leader and Committee on Justice member Zia Alonto Adiong has strongly emphasized that the House of Representatives is fully capable of simultaneously addressing the ongoing energy crisis and conducting hearings on impeachment complaints against Vice President Sara Duterte. This statement comes as a direct response to suggestions that constitutional complaints should be postponed due to the current effects of the conflict in the Middle East.
Adiong Rejects Calls for Postponement
According to the lawmaker, the nation's current hardships do not absolve the Chamber of its obligation to properly act on complaints that have been formally filed and endorsed. Adiong explained that the national government is already taking steps, including the declaration of a state of energy emergency and the formation of the UPLIFT committee, to tackle the crisis head-on. Concurrently, he asserted that Congress can continue to fulfill its constitutional mandate regarding impeachment proceedings without delay.
Constitutional Mandate Must Be Upheld
The Congressman further argued that the energy crisis cannot be used as an excuse to turn a blind eye to complaints filed by private citizens or to automatically dismiss or suspend the constitutional duties of the House. He pointed out that the Chamber has already demonstrated its ability to multitask effectively. For instance, it recently approved the suspension of the excise tax on oil to alleviate burdens on the energy, transportation, and medical sectors, all while discussing other critical national issues.
Adiong's remarks underscore a firm commitment to maintaining legislative processes despite external pressures, ensuring that both immediate economic challenges and long-term governance accountability are addressed in parallel.
