Manila, Philippines – July 25, 2025 — Senators Tito Sotto and Bam Aquino expressed concern over the Supreme Court’s recent decision declaring the impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte unconstitutional, emphasizing the potential implications on the Senate’s constitutional mandate.
Senator Tito Sotto, a veteran lawmaker and former Senate President, said he is awaiting the official response of the House of Representatives (HoR) regarding the issue before taking a firm stance. Sotto, expected to serve as part of the impeachment court, revealed that he has received a legal opinion indicating that the Supreme Court’s ruling may be subject to legal challenge. However, he stressed the need to thoroughly study the opinion before making further comments.
On the other hand, Senator Bam Aquino firmly maintained that the impeachment trial should push through. He underscored that the Senate is a co-equal branch of government with a clear constitutional duty to try impeachment cases.
“The impeachment process is part of our institutional power and must be respected,” Aquino said. He urged his fellow senators to convene a caucus to collectively discuss the impact of the SC decision, which he fears may undermine the Senate’s constitutional function.
Both senators echoed growing concern in the Upper Chamber about the possible ramifications of the high court’s ruling, particularly in terms of the separation of powers and the Senate’s role in upholding the Constitution.
As the political landscape reacts to the Supreme Court’s landmark decision, all eyes are now on Congress and how it will navigate the legal and constitutional challenges ahead.
