A large group of people from different organizations, religious groups, and opposition parties gathered outside the Philippine Senate in Pasay City. They were demanding that the Senate immediately start the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte. The protesters included members of various advocacy groups, student organizations, and community groups. Their demonstration ended with a prayer event outside the Senate.
Rafaela David, who leads Akbayan, said that the push for Duterte’s impeachment has become a nationwide movement, with support from universities, legal experts, and civic groups. She accused Senate President Francis Escudero and other Senate leaders of delaying the process for their own political reasons. David also criticized a proposal to shorten the trial, calling it a trick.
The organizers plan to hold a prayer vigil outside the Senate and return for another protest when the Senate is expected to start the trial.
Former senator Leila de Lima said that the Senate is making excuses and not following the Constitution. She emphasized that the people understand their rights and what the law says.
Kiko Aquino Dee, a relative of former democracy leaders, said he does not see the situation as similar to the events of 2001 but wants the impeachment process to be followed properly. He stressed that the impeachment trial should happen and be finished, as required by the Constitution.
More groups have joined the call for the Senate to start the trial. The political science department of UP Diliman said that delaying the process goes against the principles of accountability and democracy. They pointed out that the impeachment process is political but should not be misused for political gain.
The University of Santo Tomas and the Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines also urged the Senate to respect the Constitution and fulfill its duty. They called on senators to put aside personal interests and focus on truth and justice.
The Makati Business Club described the impeachment trial as a test of public accountability and the rule of law. They said the trial is needed to determine if the charges against the Vice President are valid.
A recent survey by OCTA Research showed that 78% of Filipinos want Duterte to face trial in the Senate. Support for the trial is high across all regions, including Mindanao, where Duterte is popular. Only 13% said they do not want the trial to happen.
The survey included 1,200 people and matched results from other polling agencies. Support for the trial was strong across different age groups, regions, and levels of education.
