MANILA (LiCAS News): “Once an impeachment complaint is filed, government institutions must act swiftly and decisively,” said Bishop Jose Colin Bagaforo, president of Caritas Philippines, calling on Senate president, Francis “Chiz” Escudero, and the Senate to ensure the immediate and impartial handling of impeachment proceedings against vice president, Sara Duterte.
“Delays and hesitations in the process only weaken our democratic institutions and erode public trust in governance,” Bishop Bagaforo added.
The social service organisation stressed that allegations of corruption, abuse of power, and negligence in public service must be treated with the same level of scrutiny as any grave crime.
“Corruption is a moral and social evil that robs the people of justice and dignity,” Bishop Bagaforo said. “Just as we seek justice in cases of violence and crime, we must be relentless in holding our leaders accountable for betraying public trust.”
Caritas Philippines underscored that impeachment is a constitutional process designed to uphold transparency and justice among the country’s highest officials. It insisted that Duterte is entitled to a fair hearing within this legal framework, irrespective of the allegations she faces.
Just as we seek justice in cases of violence and crime, we must be relentless in holding our leaders accountable for betraying public trust
Bishop Bagaforo
The organisation also cited the remarks of former senator, Miriam Defensor-Santiago, on the nature of impeachment.
It highlighted that “Impeachment is both quasi-judicial and quasi-political. It is not a civil case nor a criminal case. A criminal case is designed to punish an offender and to seek retribution. In contrast, impeachment is the first step in a process that tries to remedy a wrong in governance.”
Caritas Philippines called on senators to uphold the historical role of the Senate as a moral compass in government.
“We need the Senate, and especially the Senate president, to embody patriotism and a true commitment to social justice,” Bishop Bagaforo said. “The people are watching, and they deserve to see their leaders prioritise truth and accountability above political maneuvering.”
The organisation urged Filipinos to remain vigilant and engaged in the democratic process, stressing that the impeachment proceedings must serve the principles of justice and good governance.
“We stand with every Filipino who seeks transparency and accountability,” Bishop Bagaforo said. “Now is the time for our leaders to prove that democracy works for the people, not for political convenience.”
