DAYANGHIRANG
DAVAO CITY – A Davao City councilor called on Tuesday, July 7, respect for the constitutional process in the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte.
Speaking at the Pulong-Pulong sa Dabawenyos at Sangguniang Panlungsod, Councilor Danilo Dayanghirang, chairperson of the Committee on Finance, Ways and Means, and Appropriation, said it is too early to preempt the Senate proceedings.
Dayanghirang said it is still premature for the Davao City Council to issue any resolution of support for the Vice President while the constitutional process is underway.
He emphasized the need to respect constitutional processes before considering any official action. He stressed that, in matters of governance, the Constitution remains the primary guide.
"What is important now is to respect the senators. We may differ in our appreciation of the senators and their political parties. Still, whether we like it or not, they were elected by the people under the Constitution," Dayanghirang said.
The councilor noted that Sen. Francis "Chiz" Escudero, impeachment trial presiding officer, pointed out that legal questions surrounding the impeachment process should be brought before the Supreme Court.
"For now, we should observe the process," he said, adding that he continues to have confidence in the Senate, saying the chamber is regaining credibility as the impeachment proceedings move forward through open deliberations.
He acknowledged that he and other councilors have expressed support for the Vice President but said he could not speak for the entire City Council on whether it would adopt a resolution of support.
"I believe we should not preempt the proceedings. We have supported the Vice President, but any official action should be necessary and timely," the councilor said. He added that he is praying for peace and for the legal process to follow the law.
Meanwhile, members of the Solid Duterte Supporters Group Davao Oriental Chapter held a motorcade in Mati City on Monday, July 6, to express support for the Vice President and oppose the impeachment trial.
Participants carried banners with the messages "No to Impeachment" and "Inday Sara 2028 for President."
They said the motorcade aimed to demonstrate support for Duterte while calling for national unity amid political tensions surrounding the impeachment trial.