I understand that the impending impeachment proceedings present complex legal questions, particularly in light of my current situation and the constitutional requirements governing the conviction or acquittal of an impeachable official. That is precisely why I am perplexed by the confidence with which some individuals have been making sweeping pronouncements that I can no longer sit, much less participate, as a senator-judge in the forthcoming impeachment trial.
The issue is far from settled.
First off, the proceedings concerning my suspension pendente lite—or suspension while litigation is pending—are still ongoing. Pursuant to the directive of the court, I have yet to file my comment and opposition and avail myself of the legal remedies available to me.
Until a final and binding ruling is rendered, any assertion that I have been stripped of my authority to discharge my constitutional duties as a senator-judge is premature, baseless, and undermines the integrity of the impeachment process itself. Those claiming otherwise display a troubling disregard for due process and the orderly administration of justice.
It is regrettable that some self-proclaimed legal experts appear more interested in shaping public opinion than in respecting the proper institutions and judicial processes tasked with resolving legal controversies. The rule of law demands restraint, discernment, and respect for due process—not speculation, conjecture, partisan rhetoric, or personal interpretations presented as settled legal truth.
Nakalimutan din yata ng ilan na minsan na rin akong nagsilbi bilang senator-judge sa isang impeachment trial. Batid ko ang mga umiiral na tuntunin, proseso, at responsibilidad na kaakibat ng paglilitis sa isang impeachable official.
At bilang mambabatas, lagi kong iginagalang ang kapangyarihan ng ating mga hukuman at ang mga prosesong itinatag ng batas. Sana, lalong-lalo na ang mga nasa legal profession, hindi nila pinapangunahan ng sariling interpretasyon ang mga usapin na dapat ay napapagpasyahan ng tamang awtoridad.
Patuloy kong igagalang ang proseso ng batas, ipagtatanggol ang aking mga karapatan sa pamamagitan ng mga paraang naaayon sa batas, at gagampanan ang aking mga tungkulin alinsunod sa Konstitusyon at sa umiiral na mga batas ng ating bansa.
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