The recent impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte has sparked intense discussions, with lawmakers offering various justifications for their votes. However, public opinion appears overwhelmingly critical, as seen in a rating system assessing the validity of their defenses. The said post and commentary come from Mayor Pao Evangelista of Kidapawan City.
“I did it to defend the VP. So that she will be given the full opportunity to answer the allegations against her.”
Rating: 2/10 Analysis: Critics argue that an impeachment complaint is not a mere platform for discussion but a formal charge. By signing the complaint, the lawmaker essentially became a complainant, contradicting the claim of defending the Vice President. Public sentiment suggests that true support would have been demonstrated by opposing the complaint at the outset.
“I did this because I believe that VP Sara can defend herself. I believe in her strength and capability to answer the allegations against her.”
Rating: 1/10 Analysis: This reasoning was met with widespread skepticism. Many see it as illogical—akin to filing a case against someone just to prove they can fight back. Critics compared it to pushing someone into deep water just to see if they can swim, arguing that genuine support would not require such an action.
“Do not judge me because of one thing that you think I did wrong. Do not forget all the projects that I did for our district.”
Rating: 0.5/10 Analysis: The argument that past achievements should outweigh present decisions failed to resonate with many. Public reaction emphasized that lawmakers are elected and paid to serve, making project implementation an expectation rather than a favor. This response was perceived as an attempt to evade accountability.
“I did this for the country. I did this for the Philippines.”
Rating: 0.1/10 Analysis: The claim of acting in the nation’s best interest faced strong criticism, with many believing the impeachment complaint to be divisive rather than unifying. The prevailing sentiment was that national progress requires strategies fostering unity rather than political turmoil.
“Gihimo nako ni kay di ko gusto makuhaan og budget para sa akoang distrito.” (I did this because I don’t want my district’s budget to be reduced.)
Rating: 5/10 Analysis: While this response was noted for its honesty, it still raised ethical concerns. Critics pointed out that a legislator’s primary duty is lawmaking, not budget allocation. The implication that votes are influenced by budgetary considerations was seen as an admission of overreach in legislative functions.
Public Reaction and Political Ramifications
The ratings assigned to these justifications highlight a prevailing discontent with how lawmakers are framing their decisions. Many see the impeachment move as politically motivated rather than a genuine pursuit of accountability. As the process unfolds, both legislators and the Vice President face increasing scrutiny from a highly engaged and critical public.
With national unity at stake, the impeachment proceedings are expected to continue drawing intense debate, shaping the political landscape in the coming months.
