Bicol Saro Party-list Representative Terry Ridon assured that the House Committee on Justice will handle the impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte fairly.
Ridon said the Vice President will have the opportunity to respond to the complaints if they are found sufficient in form and substance. Attendance in the proceedings will depend on the Vice President’s decision.
Preliminary deliberations on four impeachment complaints are set to begin on March 2, lasting three days, to determine whether the complaints meet the required standards.
Ridon confirmed that the Justice Committee will follow all relevant rules, as in past impeachment proceedings, including those involving President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Complaints include betrayal of public trust, constitutional violations, graft and corruption, misuse of confidential funds, death threats against the President, the First Lady, and former House Speaker Martin Romualdez, SALN issues, and the sworn affidavit of Ramil Madriaga, who claims to be the Vice President’s “bagman.”
Madriaga may be summoned to appear during formal hearings. Coordination with the courts and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology in Bicutan, Taguig, will ensure his security.
Ridon clarified that impeachment proceedings will continue even during the Congressional session break starting March 18, with full hearings expected to resume after Holy Week.
