THE UST Central Student Council (CSC) has urged Congress to take immediate action on the impeachment complaints leveled against Vice President Sara Duterte, citing her “blatant violations of public trust.”
In a “unity statement” posted on the official CSC Facebook page on Jan. 31, the council urged Congress to “fulfill its constitutional duty” by looking into the three impeachment complaints filed against Duterte in December.
“Rooted in the core values of competence, compassion, and commitment, the (UST CSC) upholds a firm and resolute stance on the impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte,” the post read.
“As representatives of the student body, we advocate for ethical leadership, transparency, and accountability in governance.”
Three impeachment complaints have been filed against Duterte over alleged graft, corruption, bribery, betrayal of public trust, and misuse of public funds, among others.
The CSC cited the gravity of the allegations, particularly the alleged misuse of over P612.5 million in confidential funds and the obstruction of a congressional investigation.
“Now, more than ever, it is crucial to rise in collective action, defend our democratic institutions, and ensure that no public official is above the law,” it added.
Once filed, an impeachment complaint undergoes examination for probable cause before being forwarded to the floor of the House of Representatives. At least one-third of House members must vote in favor of the complaint to be transmitted to the Senate for trial.
A two-thirds vote of the Senate — 16 of its 24 members — is required to remove Duterte from office.
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. had dismissed the impeachment cases as a “waste of time,” though Malacañang recently clarified that he is not blocking the proceedings and is leaving the decision to Congress.
During a protest at Liwasang Bonifacio on Jan. 31, CSC public relations officer Annie Agon lamented the delays in Duterte’s impeachment.
“Sa loob ng UST, hindi naman hiwalay talaga yung mundo natin sa labas. Ang UST tinuturo sa atin ‘yong compassion, competence, at commitment na hinding-hindi natin makita kay Sara Duterte,” she told the Varsitarian.
“Simulan po natin sa Congress, kung sino po ‘yong magpa-process ng impeachment. Gusto po natin na makiisa po talaga sila at pumirma po sila sa impeachment case laban kay Sara Duterte.” with reports from Rev E. Dela Cruz