Act swiftly on Sara Duterte impeachment, CBCP arm tells Senate

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Delays in the process 'erode public trust in governance,' says Caritas Philippines president Bishop Jose Colin Bagaforo

MANILA, Philippines – The social action arm of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) urged the Senate on Thursday, February 27, to “act swiftly” on the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte.

“Once an impeachment complaint is filed, government institutions must act swiftly and decisively,” said Kidapawan Bishop Jose Colin Bagaforo, president of Caritas Philippines, in a statement addressed to the Senate, particularly Senate President Francis Escudero.

“Delays and hesitations in the process only weaken our democratic institutions and erode public trust in governance,” Bagaforo said.

The Senate is under fire for refusing to start Duterte’s impeachment trial soon after the House of Representatives impeached her on February 5. The Vice President, daughter of former president Rodrigo Duterte, is accused of fund misuse.

Duterte’s critics said the Constitution is clear that the Senate “shall forthwith proceed” with the impeachment trial once the House formalizes the articles of impeachment. Escudero insisted, however, that no impeachment trial can take place while Congress is on recess.

“We need the Senate, and especially the Senate President, to embody patriotism and a true commitment to social justice,” said Bagaforo, 71, president of Caritas Philippines since 2019. “The people are watching, and they deserve to see their leaders prioritize truth and accountability above political maneuvering.”

Duterte’s impeachment and controversies surrounding the 2025 national budget, which involves President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., have seen heightened involvement of religious groups in political issues. A group called Clergy for Good Governance was recently convened, while other movements involving Catholic and Protestant groups continue to emerge.

“Corruption is a moral and social evil that robs the people of justice and dignity,” said the Caritas Philippines president. “Just as we seek justice in cases of violence and crime, we must be relentless in holding our leaders accountable for betraying public trust.”

The role of the Catholic Church in sociopolitical issues was also highlighted on Tuesday, February 25, the 39th anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution that ousted dictator Ferdinand E. Marcos.

“Sometimes, the Church would not like to speak because there are critics among us who believe that the Church should not speak. The Church should be muted. The Church should be quiet,” said EDSA Shrine rector Father Jerome Secillano in Filipino.

“But what is the Church fighting for? The Church is not fighting ​​for her rights. The Church is fighting, first and foremost, for the rights of citizens,” Secillano said. – Rappler.com