PHILIPPINE businesses hope that the impeachment trial of Vice-President (VP) Sara Duterte-Carpio is expedited this year as the officials need to focus on budget deliberations among other important measures, the Makati Business Club (MBC) said.
On the sidelines of the group’s 45th anniversary celebration, MBC Chairman Edgar O. Chua told reporters: “We want it completed as soon as possible but done fairly.”
He noted that the prosecution’s decision to drop three out of four impeachment charges and focus solely on the Vice-President’s unexplained wealth is a “good move.”
“Personally, just focusing on one — the unexplained wealth — is good because otherwise, it will take longer,” Mr. Chua said.
“I think the Vice-President should welcome this, because this simplifies [the impeachment process.]”
Last week, the prosecution team withdrew three articles of impeachment, involving Ms. Duterte’s alleged misuse of confidential funds, bribery and grave threats against President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.
It noted that the evidence supporting the remaining article, which covers unexplained wealth, alleged violations of rules on statements of assets, liabilities and net worth and prohibited business interests, is enough to convict Ms. Duterte.
Congress must expedite Ms. Duterte’s impeachment trial to focus on other pressing matters, such as the deliberations for next year’s national budget.
“They should review the budget passed by Congress,” Mr. Chua said, citing comments from budget experts that the 2027 National Expenditure Program passed by congressmen had less funding on key concerns like health, education, transportation, and infrastructure.
Mr. Chua also called on the need to increase efforts on voter education, freedom and information and campaigns against political dynasties.
“The only chance that we can change the current system is if we elect the right people,” he said. — Beatriz Marie D. Cruz