Supreme Court declines TRO; Duterte impeachment hearings proceed
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Manila — Vice President Sara Duterte filed a petition with the Supreme Court on April 1 seeking to halt the House Committee on Justice's "hearing proper" on impeachment complaints against her; the court on April 8 did not grant a temporary restraining order, allowing committee proceedings to continue.
The decision leaves the committee scheduled to convene on April 14 and maintains the legislative timetable; lawmakers and critics reacted publicly, with Rep. Terry Ridon calling the petition's claims fraudulent and Rep. Leila de Lima describing the situation as a procedural dilemma.
More context
Timeline
- 1. 27 March: Lawyer-supporters led by Atty. Israelito P. Torreon filed a petition challenging impeachment proceedings.
- 2. 1 April: Vice President Sara Duterte filed a petition for certiorari and prohibition with the Supreme Court.
- 3. Early April: House Committee on Justice ruled certain complaints sufficient in form, substance, and grounds.
- 4. 8 April: The Supreme Court did not issue a temporary restraining order to halt hearings.
- 5. 14 April: The Committee on Justice was scheduled to proceed with the next impeachment hearing.
Why it matters
This impeachment process could shift the political landscape in the Philippines. If you have family there or business interests, it's worth keeping an eye on. Watch for updates on the April 14 hearing.
Sources
JQJO Editorial Desk · Human reviewed · AI assisted. Report a correction.
