SC asks Congress on VP Sara Duterte's impeachment

The Supreme Court has asked the House of Representatives and the Senate to respond to 11 questions regarding Vice President Sara Duterte's impeachment process.

House spokesperson Princess Abante confirmed that the lower chamber had already complied with the SC's request for information but declined to answer some questions on grounds of internal proceedings and separation of powers.

The House maintained that it did not violate the one-year bar rule by initiating a new complaint within 10 session days after archiving previous complaints.

Lawmakers like Leila de Lima expressed concern over the lack of questions directed at the Senate, suggesting it could be used as an excuse to delay action on the petitions.

The House prosecution panel asserted that the Supreme Court's intervention is limited and matters regarding the validity of the impeachment complaint should fall under the jurisdiction of the Senate impeachment court.

Further, the House cited separation of powers principles and a previous SC decision in Santiago v. Guingona, asserting its internal proceedings are beyond the SC’s scrutiny.

The seven Articles of Impeachment against Duterte include allegations of conspiracy to assassinate government officials, malversation of funds, bribery, unexplained wealth, involvement in extrajudicial killings, destabilization efforts, and overall conduct as second highest official.

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