De Lima, Diokno dismiss VP Duterte's 'bloodbath' impeachment remark

Congresswoman-elect Leila de Lima and Chel Diokno, representatives-elect, dismissed Vice President Sara Duterte's "bloodbath" remark regarding her impeachment trial.

De Lima stated that impeachment trials are a "sacrosanct constitutional process of accountability," not a "show of brute force," and characterized Duterte's rhetoric as "mindless arrogance" and "toxic."

Diokno called the impeachment trial a "civilized legal process" that would reveal the truth to the nation.

Both de Lima and Diokno have accepted invitations to be members of the House prosecution panel.

De Lima suggested Duterte's "bloodbath" comment was an attempt to "court sympathy" as the trial approaches.

Iloilo 3rd District Representative Lorenz Defensor also criticized Duterte's remark, calling it a "terrible example to the youth" and asserting that such an attitude has no place in government.

The impeachment trial, focusing on allegations including misuse of confidential funds and threats against the President, is expected to commence in July.

Vice President Duterte was impeached by the House of Representatives on February 5.