Manila, Philippines — Senator Mark Villar stood firmly in defense of the Philippine Constitution on the Senate floor, explaining his vote against proceeding with the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, following a landmark ruling by the Supreme Court.
The Supreme Court had earlier declared the Articles of Impeachment against the Vice President unconstitutional, citing violations of the “one-year rule” and due process. The unanimous decision, handed down on July 25, was central to Senator Villar’s explanation of vote.
Respecting Judicial Authority
In his speech, Villar emphasized the Senate’s obligation to respect the authority of the Supreme Court as the ultimate interpreter of the Constitution. He quoted Article VIII, Section 1 of the Constitution, which establishes the judiciary’s power to check grave abuses of discretion by any government branch—including the Senate acting as an impeachment tribunal.
“No one, including the Senate, can substitute its opinion over the Court’s in any matter concerning the Constitution,” Villar declared, citing the historic Angara vs. Electoral Commission case to reinforce the Supreme Court’s constitutional role.
Defending the Rule of Law
Shifting from legal to moral duty, Villar invoked the senators’ Oath of Office, which binds them to uphold the Constitution and obey legal orders. He warned that disobeying the Court’s ruling would trigger a constitutional crisis that would only undermine the foundations of the country’s democratic system.
“Kung susuway tayo sa desisyon ng Supreme Court sa isang isyung konstitusyonal, binabalewala natin ang konstitusyon,” he said, stressing the need for institutional integrity and mutual respect among co-equal branches of government.
Due Process for All
Villar echoed the sentiments of Senior Associate Justice Marvic Leonen, the ponente of the Court’s decision, stating that the impeachment process must remain faithful to due process, even though it is inherently political. He underscored that the protection of rights and adherence to proper procedure must apply to everyone—from high-ranking officials to ordinary citizens.
“This decision proves that due process is not an empty phrase,” Villar said. “It is a promise of fairness that our institutions are prepared to uphold.”
Closing with a Message on Justice
He concluded with a powerful quote from Justice Leonen: “There is a right way to do the right thing at the right time. This is what the Rule of Just Law means.”
Senator Villar’s explanation reaffirmed his commitment to the constitutional order and legal due process, asserting that his vote was not a surrender of the Senate’s independence but a stand for the supremacy of the rule of law.
