Former senator Leila de Lima said impeachment proceedings are a constitutional obligation, not a matter of political choice, stressing that the House of Representatives is required to act once a complaint is filed. She criticized early defenses by presidential allies that were made before any formal scrutiny of the complaint, its grounds, or supporting evidence.
De Lima said impeachment is both legal and political, but often turns political at the outset, with allies rushing to protect the president. While such reactions may be expected, she said they do not control the process or its outcome. What matters is the House’s duty under the Constitution.
She emphasized that the House has no discretion to delay or ignore impeachment complaints. Once filed, a complaint must be included in the Order of Business within ten session days and referred to the Committee on Justice within three session days after that, regardless of political considerations or legislative workload.
At the committee level, de Lima said the focus is on whether the complaint is sufficient in form and substance and whether its allegations can be supported by evidence. She noted that even one valid ground, if approved by a majority of committee members, is enough to advance the proceedings.
She also clarified that the one-year ban on impeachment complaints applies only after a complaint is formally referred to the Committee on Justice. Until then, multiple complaints may still be filed and consolidated.
“This is not a question of priority,” de Lima said. “It is a question of duty.”
