Senate President Win Gatchalian said the commencement this week of the impeachment trial against Vice President Sara Duterte has been orderly and peaceful, reflecting the Senate’s commitment to the rule of law. 

“The proceedings have been generally peaceful and orderly, effectively enabling the Senate to fulfill its constitutional mandate to sit as an impeachment court. We expect the same temperament to prevail throughout the whole trial,” Gatchalian said. 

He added that the decorum exhibited during the opening days reflects the chamber’s commitment to dispensing its mandate appropriately, guided by principles of justice and impartiality.

The Senate President thanked Filipinos across the country who have closely followed the trial. 

“Salamat sa bawat Pilipinong nanonood at nakikinig. Ang inyong pagmamasid ay nagpapaalala sa amin na hindi ito laro ng pulitika, kundi usapin ng katotohanan at pananagutan,” he said.

Gatchalian also expressed appreciation for his fellow senator-judges, who he said have approached the proceedings with the discipline and open-mindedness required of them. 

SP Gatchalian said the Senate remains committed to strict adherence to due process by ensuring both prosecution and defense are given ample opportunity to present their cases.

He also assured the public that the Senate will see the process through to a just and credible conclusion. 

“Patuloy nating gagampanan ang ating tungkulin. Sisiguraduhin nating maayos at mapayapa ang susunod na mga araw ng impeachment trial,” he added.

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Photo by Mark Cayabyab / OS WIN GATCHALIAN