MAP 'deeply concerned' as Senate returns impeachment case to House
The Management Association of the Philippines (MAP), comprising the country’s leading business executives, is “deeply concerned” over the Senate’s decision to return the impeachment case of Vice President Sara Duterte to the House of Representatives, warning of its potential economic impact.
The influential business group stated that the Senate has the constitutional duty to conduct the impeachment trial of Duterte “without any delay or disruption.”
“Abandoning this mandate undermines the integrity of our democratic processes,” MAP said in a statement, signed by its president Al Panlilio and national issues committee chair Rene Almendras.
MAP said that this issue is no longer restricted to mere politics, as it is “fundamentally about good governance and the rule of law.”
On Tuesday evening, June 11, the Senate officially convened for an impeachment trial, marking the start of proceedings after months of delay.
However, 18 senators voted to swiftly remand the articles of impeachment against the country’s second-highest official to the lower chamber, citing the need to address supposed constitutional infirmities. Only five senators voted against this move.
While Senate leadership has insisted that this is not equivalent to a dismissal of the case, pro-impeachment lawmakers cast doubt over the matter.
MAP is now urging senators to “rise to the occasion” and reaffirm their role as a pillar of good governance and the rule of law by continuing the impeachment trial.
“By allowing the trial to proceed, the Senate would affirm its commitment to transparency, accountability, and other principles of good governance,” it said.
The group added that the trial would give the prosecution a fair chance to present its case, and the defense a full opportunity to respond and clear the vice president’s name.
MAP said that upholding the rule of law is critical to ensure a stable and predictable environment for economic growth.
“It builds investor confidence, attracts job-generating investments, and ultimately benefits all Filipinos,” the group added.