MANILA — Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio refused to attend the House Committee on Justice hearing on impeachment complaints against her, accusing lawmakers of using the proceedings to advance a “media narrative” and pursue political interests, even as the panel pushed ahead with its constitutional mandate.
In a statement sent to Panay News, Duterte-Carpio defended her absence, saying the country is grappling with more pressing issues that deserve government attention.
“The problems of the nation today are the possible closure of businesses, loss of jobs, and the hardship of Filipino families due to the continued rise in prices of goods,” she said.
The vice president argued that the hearing was being framed as a “mini-trial,” particularly in light of her non-attendance, and claimed it was part of what she described as a “third fishing expedition” against her.
She maintained that her personal appearance was not required under existing rules, noting that she had already submitted her “Answer ad Cautelam.”
Duterte-Carpio further asserted that the impeachment complaints should be dismissed outright.
“For now, there is nothing more for the Committee to do but dismiss the complaints due to clear lack of evidence,” Duterte-Carpio said.
Instead of attending the hearing, she said she would focus on assisting Filipinos on the ground, particularly those affected by rising costs of basic commodities.
Despite her absence, House Committee on Justice Chairperson Gerville Luistro said the proceedings continued as scheduled, stressing that the panel is bound to carry out its constitutional duty.
“They are questioning the constitutionality of the proceedings, but the Committee on Justice is duty-bound to continue with its mandate under the Constitution,” Luistro said./PN
