Political survival? Adiong would rather seek accountability from VP Duterte
At A Glance
- Lanao del Sur 1st district Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong would rather do what he believes is right than ensure his own political survival.
Lanao del Sur 1st district Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong (left), Vice President Sara Duterte (PPAB, Facebook)
Lanao del Sur 1st district Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong would rather do what he believes is right than ensure his own political survival.
This can be gleaned from Adiong's statements during a press conference Thursday, Feb. 6, a day after he joined 214 other House members in singing an impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte.
The complaint, along with seven articles of impeachment, was forwarded to the Senate before session was adjourned.
During the presser, Adiong acknowledged that the Dutertes remained very popular and enjoyed strong support in certain areas, particularly in Mindanao.
However, he emphasized that lawmakers must give primacy to their duty of upholding the Constitution over political considerations.
“Once you are elected to an office, you are expected not only by the Constitution but by the people to act in certain ways,” Adiong said.
“We cannot turn a blind eye and be more concerned about the possible backlash that it may cause us politically,” he further noted.
He warned about the consequences of prioritizing political survival over seeking accountability. He said that ignoring high crimes for personal political gain would be a disservice to the Filipino people.
“How can I face my voters if I turn a blind eye on these high crimes that were committed blatantly under the sun?” Adiong asked.
The six major allegations contained in the seven articles of impeachment within the 33-page complaint are conspiracy to assassinate President Marcos; malversation of P612.5 million in confidential funds; bribery and corruption in Department of Education (DepEd); unexplained wealth and failure to disclose assets; involvement in extrajudicial killings (Davao Death Squad); and destabilization, insurrection, and public disorder.