The Supreme Court's (SC) decision declaring unconstitutional the impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte validates the Senate's cautious approach on it.

This was according to Atty. Regie Tongol, spokesperson for the Senate Impeachment Court, in a statement on Friday, July 25.

"The Senate, sitting as an Impeachment Court, has always acted in deference to the Constitution and the rule of law. As a co-equal branch of government, we are duty-bound to respect the finality of rulings issued by the High Court," the statement read.

Tongol emphasized that the Supreme Court’s ruling affirms the “careful and deliberate posture” taken by the Impeachment Court concerning trial proceedings until constitutional questions were resolved.

“This decision affirms the careful and deliberate posture taken by the Impeachment Court—that constitutional issues surrounding the Articles required clarity before trial proceedings could commence," he said.

"The Court’s ruling validates the prudence and restraint exercised by the Senate majority in recognizing those legal uncertainties from the outset,” he added.

He stated that the Upper Chamber now awaits the formal transmittal of the Supreme Court’s decision and any related guidance that may influence the Impeachment Court’s jurisdiction going forward.

Tongol reiterated the Senate’s commitment to due process and the integrity of democratic institutions.

“The Senate remains committed to upholding constitutional order, ensuring due process, and protecting the integrity of our democratic institutions,” he said.