MEMBERS of the so-called Young Guns in the House of Representatives have dismissed Vice President Sara Duterte’s recent statements on the impeachment complaint filed against her, describing it as an attempt to downplay the gravity of the case, revealing an obvious anxiety over the looming Senate trial.

Representatives Pammy Zamora (Taguig City), Jil Bongalon (Ako Bicol Party-list), Paolo Ortega (La Union) and Jay Khonghun (Zambales) issued a joint statement following Duterte’s press conference where she brushed off the impeachment complaint as a premeditated move against her.

“Vice President Duterte’s press conference was meant to downplay the seriousness of the impeachment complaint against her. Instead, her dismissive remarks only reinforced the perception that she is deeply anxious about the trial ahead,” the lawmakers said.

They criticized Duterte’s remarks as lacking substance, saying she evaded a direct rebuttal of the allegations against her and instead framed the impeachment process as a political plot dating back to late 2023.

“Her statement, lacking substance and punctuated by vague, defensive quips, failed to address the grave allegations against her. She did not offer a direct rebuttal to the charges but instead framed the impeachment as a premeditated effort,” they said.

The lawmakers also took issue with Duterte’s attempt to cast doubt on those who signed the complaint, calling it a diversion from the real issues at hand.

“Vice President Duterte also sought to undermine the legitimacy of the impeachment complaint by casting doubt on the lawmakers who signed it. Instead of addressing the accusations, she insinuated that the need for these lawmakers to justify their signatures was itself an admission of wrongdoing,” they said.

They asserted that Duterte’s nonchalance was a poorly executed act meant to disguise her fear, emphasizing that the House of Representatives had already found probable cause to impeach her.

With the complaint now transmitted to the Senate, the lawmakers said the focus must now be on ensuring a fair and transparent trial that prioritizes the rule of law over political interests.

“This trial is not about political maneuvering – it is about upholding the integrity of democratic institutions. The Senate must ensure a fair, impartial and transparent trial,” they said.

The lawmakers reiterated that the charges against Duterte, including allegations of large-scale corruption involving confidential funds, were serious enough to warrant impeachment, with 215 lawmakers endorsing the complaint.

They warned against any delays or obstruction in the Senate, saying that dragging out the trial would only erode public trust in government institutions.

“Justice delayed is justice denied. The Senate must act swiftly to ensure a transparent and fair trial. Any delay or obstruction will only deepen public distrust in the government,” they said.

Framing the impeachment as a critical test for Philippine democracy, they said the outcome of the trial would determine whether the country upholds the rule of law or allows high-ranking officials to escape accountability.

“The people are watching. How the Senate votes will be remembered—not just in history books but in the minds of every Filipino demanding accountability,” they said.

AUTHOR PROFILE

Jester P. Manalastas