Erwin Tulfo respects SC ruling, but reaffirms Senate's sole power to try impeachment cases
By Dhel Nazario
At A Glance
- Senator Erwin Tulfo expressed respect for the Supreme Court's (SC) ruling on the impeachment case against Vice President Sara Duterte, but still emphasized the Senate's sole constitutional authority to try impeachment cases.
Senator Erwin Tulfo on Friday, July 25, acknowledged the Supreme Court’s (SC) unanimous decision declaring the articles of impeachment against Vice President Sara Duterte unconstitutional, but at the same time emphasized the Senate’s constitutional role in trying impeachment cases.
Senator-elect Erwin Tulfo (Senate Public Relations and Information Bureau)
In a statement, Tulfo said that he was yet to review the full text of the SC’s decisio, but expressed respect for the ruling and the high court’s interpretation of the constitutional provisions governing impeachment.
“I respect the ruling of the Supreme Court and its interpretation of the constitutional limits that guide the impeachment process,” he said.
However, Tulfo underscored the Constitution’s declaration that the Senate holds the sole authority to try and decide all impeachment cases.
“Nonetheless, the Constitution is clear: the Senate shall have the sole power to try and decide all cases of impeachment. If given the opportunity, I am prepared to discharge our solemn duty and allow the evidence to speak for itself,” he said.
“Ako ay handang makinig sa malinaw na ebidensya at sa tunay na tinig ng taumbayan (I am ready to listen to clear evidence and to the true voice of the people),” he added.
Tulfo affirmed his commitment to act alongside his fellow senators with integrity and fairness in fulfilling their constitutional mandate.
“Nirerespeto ko po ang desisyon ng [SC]. I am sure na pag-uusapan namin ito sa Lunes sa Senado kung susundin ba o balewalain ang desisyong ito ng SC (I respect the decision of the SC. I am sure we will discuss this on Monday in the Senate, whether to follow or disregard the SC’s decision),” he said.