The National Council of Churches in the Philippines (NCCP) on Wednesday expressed support for the House of Representatives’ decision to impeach Vice President Sara Duterte, urging the Senate to proceed with the impeachment process under the Constitution.
In a statement, the NCCP said the impeachment “reflects the will of the Filipino people to hold the Vice President accountable for grave allegations of corruption,” referring to the reported misuse of ₱612.5 million in confidential funds and “the reported fabrication of recipients.”
The church council called on the Senate to ensure that “the rule of law takes precedence over political considerations.”
The NCCP also raised concern over the Vice President’s public remarks. “We are also deeply alarmed by the Vice President’s public declarations of threats and killings,” the statement read.
“Statements that are inappropriate and unbecoming of such a leader, in such an honorable position entrusted with serving the people,” it added.
The group cited what it described as a “pattern of impunity,” where some officials are able to avoid accountability due to their positions and connections.
It said that this contributes to a situation where “the law becomes slack and justice never prevails,” quoting Habakkuk 1:4: “The wicked surround the righteous, therefore judgment comes forth perverted.”
The NCCP emphasized that impeachment is a legal mechanism intended to hold public officials accountable for misconduct.
“This process ensures that they are held accountable for their actions of misconduct and abuse of power,” the statement said.
The group also referred to the ongoing international legal proceedings against former President Rodrigo Duterte, currently in the custody of the International Criminal Court.
It described the impeachment of the Vice President as part of efforts to address “impunity and unaccountability.”
“May this ultimately serve the greater welfare of our beloved Filipino people,” the group said.
The statement was signed by Acting Chairperson The Most Rev. Brent Harry W. Alawas, Vice Chairpersons Ms. Jennifer Ferariza-Meneses and Pastor Jon Dave A. Angeles, Treasurer Rev. Leonardo R. Morada, and General Secretary Ms. Minnie Anne M. Calub.
