MANILA — Sen. Robin Padilla on Monday defended his position on national issues amid accusations of disloyalty, insisting that his stance is anchored on protecting Philippine sovereignty and rejecting foreign interference, while also denying that recent leadership changes in the Senate were intended to influence the impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte.
Padilla said efforts to portray him as a traitor for opposing what he described as external intervention in Philippine affairs were misplaced, arguing that safeguarding the country’s independence is a patriotic duty.
“Hindi ako traydor sa Pilipinas. Ang tanong ko: sino ba talaga ang traydor? Ang tumitindig para sa kalayaan at soberanya ng kanyang bayan, o ang handang ipaubaya sa dayuhan ang paghusga at pagdidikta sa mga Pilipino?” said Padilla.
The senator stressed that his position is not aimed at protecting any specific individual but at defending the country’s right to govern itself and hold its citizens accountable through its own institutions and legal processes.
Padilla likewise dismissed speculation that the recent Senate leadership restructuring was connected to the impeachment complaint against Duterte, saying constitutional requirements would compel senators to act once the case formally reaches the chamber.
“Kapag nakarating sa Senado ang impeachment, walang makakapigil diyan. Malinaw sa Konstitusyon at sa rules ng Senado na kailangan kaming mag-convene bilang impeachment court,” Padilla said.
According to the senator, the leadership changes were intended to strengthen the Senate’s investigative functions, particularly through the Blue Ribbon Committee, and to ensure accountability in matters of public concern.
“Hindi po ginawa ang leadership change para sa impeachment. Ginawa po namin iyon para sa Blue Ribbon Committee, upang malaman ng taumbayan ang katotohanan at upang masiguro na may pananagutan ang mga dapat managot,” he remarked.
Padilla maintained that his views are driven by patriotism and respect for Filipinos who fought and sacrificed for the country’s freedom, including those from the Bangsamoro region.
“Hindi natin isusuko ang ating soberanya. Napakaraming Pilipino ang lumaban at nagsakripisyo para sa bansang ito. Ang pagtatanggol sa kalayaan ng Pilipinas ay hindi pagtataksil — ito ay tungkulin,” he stressed.
The senator emphasized that defending Philippine sovereignty should remain a national responsibility that transcends political differences and personal interests./PN
