MANILA – Malacañang on Sunday dismissed talks of a possible impeachment complaint against President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. as unsubstantiated, saying the Chief Executive remains focused on governance and delivering results for the Filipino people.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro issued the statement in response to claims by Caloocan 2nd District Rep. Edgar Erice that an impeachment complaint could be filed against Marcos once Congress resumes session on Jan. 26.
“At this point, these are unsubstantiated statements allegedly coming from the supporters of a certain politician,” Castro said.
The Palace official stressed that the President respects constitutional processes and will not be distracted by rumors or political maneuverings.
“The President remains committed to leading and producing results for the Filipino people. He respects the existing constitutional processes and believes that any actions taken by members of Congress will be driven by facts, the law, and national interest,” Castro said.
“The administration will not speculate on rumors or political maneuverings,” she said.
The supposed move against Marcos comes amid reports that Vice President Sara Duterte may also face another impeachment complaint when the House resumes session.
Erice said he does not intend to support either complaint but plans to seek clarification by raising questions before the Committee on Justice should any case be filed.
The lawmaker cited Supreme Court rulings which state that impeachment complaints are first evaluated by the Justice committee to determine compliance with form and substance before any proceedings can move forward.
He did not identify the lawmakers allegedly preparing the complaints, although “betrayal of public trust” was mentioned as a possible ground without further details.
Under the 1987 Constitution, the President may be impeached for culpable violation of the constitution, treason, bribery, graft and corruption, other high crimes or betrayal of public trust. (PNA)