By Louis ‘Barok‘ C. Biraogo — January 13, 2024
IS Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment destined to crumble under the weight of bloc voting and political opportunism? Senator Sherwin Gatchalian seems to think so. By touting the Iglesia ni Cristo rally as a game-changer, he reveals a dangerous willingness to trade the rule of law for the convenience of political expediency, dressing up defeatism as ‘realism.’
As citizens of a democracy, we must challenge this narrative and reaffirm the principles that underpin a just and accountable government.
The Fallacy of Political Expediency
Gatchalian’s argument rests on the idea that politicians will “think twice” before supporting the impeachment of Vice President Duterte due to the INC rally’s implied influence. This assumption reveals a fundamental flaw in his reasoning: the belief that political survival should outweigh the pursuit of justice.
Impeachment is not a political weapon; it is a constitutional mechanism designed to safeguard the public from abuses of power. The charges against Duterte—ranging from misuse of confidential funds to graft and corruption—are grave. These allegations deserve a thorough, impartial investigation, not to be sidelined by the fear of alienating any voting bloc.
True leadership demands the courage to act in the nation’s best interest, even when it comes at a political cost. By suggesting otherwise, Gatchalian reduces governance to a cynical game of alliances, where accountability is negotiable and justice is secondary.
Accountability Cannot Be Negotiated
The impeachment process is not merely a legal proceeding; it is a testament to the principles of transparency and accountability. Gatchalian’s remarks dismiss this process as “political,” undermining its legitimacy and the people’s right to demand answers from their leaders.
To set aside these allegations in the name of unity or “peace,” as some have suggested, is to deny the Filipino people the justice they deserve. Peace cannot exist in a society where public officials evade accountability. History has shown that unchecked power leads to corruption, impunity, and the erosion of trust in government institutions.
The lessons from Chief Justice Renato Corona’s impeachment in 2012 are clear: no individual, no matter how powerful, is above the law. Despite the INC’s rally against his conviction, the Senate upheld its duty to the people and rendered a decision based on evidence and conscience. The same principles must guide us now.
Defeatism Undermines Democracy
Gatchalian’s defeatist stance sends a dangerous message: that the fear of political repercussions is justification enough to abandon one’s principles. This mindset betrays the Filipino people, who rely on their leaders to act with integrity and prioritize the nation’s welfare over their own interests.
Politicians who allow external pressures to dictate their actions erode public trust and embolden those who seek to misuse public funds. The Filipino people deserve better than leaders who bow to the whims of political expediency. They deserve leaders who will stand up for truth and justice, regardless of the personal or political consequences.
The Importance of the Impeachment Process
The impeachment of Vice President Duterte is not merely a political issue; it is a litmus test for the strength of our democratic institutions. It is about protecting public resources, upholding the rule of law, and ensuring that no official is beyond reproach.
Gatchalian and those who share his defeatist perspective must remember that the Filipino people have the right to transparency. Sweeping serious allegations under the rug sets a dangerous precedent, signaling to future leaders that corruption and abuse will be tolerated if they can muster enough political clout to shield themselves.
A Call to Courageous Leadership
As we face this critical juncture, we must remind our leaders that their primary obligation is to the Filipino people. Decisions must be guided not by fear or political convenience but by conscience, evidence, and an unwavering commitment to justice.
The INC rally should not deter our representatives from doing what is right. Instead, it should inspire a deeper reflection on the values we wish to uphold as a nation. If anything, this moment calls for courage, for leaders who will rise above political pressures and demonstrate principled leadership.
The stakes are too high to settle for anything less. It is time for our leaders to remember their oath to serve the people, to uphold the Constitution, and to ensure that justice prevails—even when it is difficult, even when it is unpopular.
Accountability is not optional; it is the cornerstone of justice. Justice is not negotiable; it is the foundation of democracy. Democracy is not self-sustaining; it requires us to rise, speak, and act. The time to demand, to stand, and to defend is now.
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KWEBA ni BAROK 
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