ICC Warrant Against VP Sara may have Impact on the Impeachment Process

 

House Panel Prepares for Impeachment Proceedings Amid ICC Warrant Rumors

Opening Remarks and Initial Discussions

The House Committee on Public Accountability, led by Manila Third District Representative Joel R. Chua, held a press briefing to address developments related to the upcoming impeachment proceedings. Rep. Chua expressed gratitude for the presence of the media and assured the public that the committee remains committed to transparency and due process. He also confirmed that Janet Getting, who was expected to attend, had to prioritize an emergency meeting but promised to hold a Zoom press conference within the week.

Preparations for the Prosecution Panel

During the briefing, a reporter inquired about the House’s request for a designated room in the Senate for the prosecution panel. Rep. Chua explained that this request is part of their logistical preparations to ensure an efficient workflow. The requested space would serve as a work area for their team, allowing them to familiarize themselves with the environment ahead of the trial. The committee is currently awaiting the Senate’s response.

Further, the secretariat of the prosecution panel is actively working on organizing attachments to the impeachment complaint, including key documentary evidence such as acknowledgment receipts for confidential funds. Rep. Chua emphasized that their staff plays a crucial role in expediting legal research and ensuring that all necessary materials are readily available.

ICC Warrant and Its Impact on the Impeachment Process

One of the pressing concerns raised was the rumor of an International Criminal Court (ICC) warrant of arrest. When asked whether this would affect the impeachment process, Rep. Chua clarified that the ICC case against former President Rodrigo Duterte is separate from the impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte. However, he acknowledged that if an ICC warrant were issued against VP Duterte, it could cause delays in the proceedings.

A reporter sought Rep. Chua’s perspective on the implications of both former President Duterte and VP Duterte being out of the country. Rep. Chua reiterated that, as of now, the reported warrant remains a rumor. Nevertheless, should the warrant be confirmed and implemented, it could lead to significant complications in both the ICC case and the impeachment trial. He highlighted that Article 5 of the impeachment complaint addresses high crimes, including murder and conspiracy to commit murder, referencing testimonial evidence from Edgar Lascanyas.

Government's Response and Legal Obligations

Another reporter followed up on the ICC issue, citing statements from PCO Secretary G. Ruiz regarding the government’s preparedness for any developments. Rep. Chua acknowledged that, despite the Philippines’ withdrawal from the ICC, the country remains a member of Interpol. This membership entails legal and diplomatic obligations, as demonstrated when the Philippine government sought Interpol’s assistance in locating individuals abroad.

The reporter further pressed on the potential effects of an ICC arrest warrant on the impeachment process. Rep. Chua clarified that while former President Duterte’s involvement is primarily as a legal adviser, VP Duterte is the primary subject of the impeachment complaint. The proceedings could continue in her absence unless her physical presence becomes essential.

Confidential Funds and the Prosecution’s Next Steps

The discussion then shifted to the issue of confidential funds, with questions raised about the full list of beneficiaries. Rep. Chua stated that the emergence of fictitious names in official records strengthens the prosecution’s case. This issue will be a critical component of the articles of impeachment.

Regarding the prosecution panel’s next steps, Rep. Chua revealed that the team has divided the articles of impeachment among different members, ensuring that each article is thoroughly analyzed. The panel is currently identifying potential legal challenges and refining their arguments for the upcoming trial.