June 8, 2025 – Manila, Philippines
Deans from five Ateneo law schools across the country issued a rare joint statement on Saturday calling on the Senate to immediately commence the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Zimmerman Duterte-Carpio, emphasizing the constitutional mandate and their duty as legal educators to uphold the rule of law.
The statement was signed by the deans of Ateneo de Manila University, Ateneo de Davao University, Xavier University–Ateneo de Cagayan, Ateneo de Naga University, and Ateneo de Zamboanga University.
“As Jesuit, Filipino, and Catholic legal educational institutions, we are deeply committed in our teaching and formation missions to truth, justice, and the rule of law,” the deans declared.
Citing their roles as educators, citizens, and advocates of the Constitution, the deans emphasized that public office is a public trust and that accountability must be upheld without delay, evasion, or political interference.
They also underscored that the Constitution is unequivocal on the procedure once the House of Representatives transmits the Articles of Impeachment to the Senate: “Trial by the Senate shall forthwith proceed.”
The statement argued that the Senate, as an impeachment court, is a continuing body — referencing Supreme Court rulings that distinguish the Senate’s legislative and quasi-judicial functions — and therefore must proceed with the trial even as the 20th Congress begins.
The deans called on senators to remain impartial and non-partisan in conducting the trial, urging them to uphold due process and equal protection under the law.
“We are making this urgent call in faithful response to our moral and spiritual duty as educators and formators of future Ateneo lawyers,” the statement read. “We pray that the Philippine Senate will likewise respond to its moral and constitutional duty as true servants of the public.”
The joint statement was signed by:
- Atty. Manuel P. Quibod, Ateneo de Davao University College of Law
- Atty. Jose Maria G. Hofileña, Ateneo de Manila University School of Law
- Atty. Domnina T. Rances, Ateneo de Naga University College of Law
- Atty. Corazon J. Montemor, Ateneo de Zamboanga University College of Law
- Atty. Silvia Jo G. Sabio, Xavier University–Ateneo de Cagayan School of Law
This development marks a significant moment in the growing public and institutional calls for clarity and accountability in the impeachment process against the Vice President, whose alleged misconduct has yet to be publicly detailed by the House. The Senate has yet to issue a formal response on when it will convene as an impeachment court.