By Sara Duterte Impeachment Trial MANILA, Philippines — June 10, 2025
Five of the country’s most prestigious Jesuit-run law schools have formally joined the growing call for the Philippine Senate to commence the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, emphasizing their commitment to uphold the Constitution and the rule of law.
In a joint statement released on Monday, the deans of five Ateneo colleges of law—spanning Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao—stated that it is the constitutional duty of the Senate to address the impeachment complaint filed against Duterte without further delay.
Joint Statement from Ateneo Law Deans
The signatories to the statement include:
- Ateneo de Manila University School of Law
- Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan School of Law
- Ateneo de Davao University College of Law
- Ateneo de Zamboanga University College of Law
- Ateneo de Naga University College of Law
“We confirm that as Jesuit, Filipino, and Catholic legal educational institutions, we are deeply committed in our teaching and formation missions to truth, justice, and the rule of law,” the statement read.
The legal scholars emphasized that the impeachment process is a constitutional mechanism designed to ensure accountability at the highest levels of government.
Background: Impeachment Complaint vs. VP Duterte
The impeachment complaint, filed in early May 2025, accused Vice President Duterte of “betrayal of public trust” and “grave abuse of power.” The complaint is currently pending in the House of Representatives, which has transmitted it to the Senate for trial proceedings.
Several political analysts say the complaint stems from controversial policy decisions and alleged conflicts with the Office of the President, though details of the articles of impeachment remain sealed from public view.
Constitutional Mandate and Legal Perspective
The Ateneo law deans reminded lawmakers that the 1987 Constitution requires the Senate to act as an impeachment court once the House has endorsed a complaint. Failure to do so, they say, undermines the rule of law and creates a dangerous precedent of political inaction.
“This is not about politics. This is about process, accountability, and the constitutional role of each branch of government,” said one of the deans who spoke under condition of anonymity.
Broader Implications for Rule of Law in the Philippines
This intervention by the Ateneo deans comes at a time when public trust in democratic institutions remains fragile. Surveys have shown a growing concern among Filipinos over perceived abuses of power, erosion of checks and balances, and the politicization of independent institutions.
According to a recent survey by Pulse Asia, 63% of Filipinos agree that government officials—regardless of rank—should be subject to legal scrutiny when accused of wrongdoing. Analysts suggest that this growing civic awareness is why many are now closely following the impeachment proceedings involving Vice President Duterte.
“It is a mistake to dismiss this simply as a political issue. Citizens, especially the youth and professionals, are beginning to understand that rule of law must apply to everyone, especially those at the top,” said Atty. Ramon Sevilla, spokesperson of a Manila-based watchdog group.
National Response and Political Implications
The call from the Ateneo institutions adds legal weight to mounting public pressure for transparency and swift action in the impeachment proceedings. While some administration allies have dismissed the complaint as politically motivated, legal professionals and civic groups emphasize that only a full Senate trial can determine the merit of the case.
Jesuit Values and Social Accountability
As institutions rooted in Jesuit principles, the Ateneo law schools have long played an active role in promoting legal ethics, democratic values, and public accountability. Their statement is seen as both a moral and legal appeal to lawmakers to fulfill their constitutional duties regardless of political affiliations.
What Happens Next?
The ball is now in the hands of the Senate. Should they proceed, the impeachment trial would mark a historic test of the independence and resolve of the legislative branch under the current administration.
Observers nationwide—and globally—will be closely watching how Philippine democracy handles this critical moment.
