President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. is choosing to focus on governance and the needs of the Filipino people rather than engage in the ongoing political developments surrounding the Senate’s move to return the impeachment case of Vice President Sara Duterte to the House of Representatives, Malacañang said Wednesday.
In a press briefing, Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said the President remains committed to addressing the country’s pressing economic concerns, particularly in lowering the prices of essential goods such as rice and pork.
“The President is focused on working,” Castro said.
“While some senators are occupied with procedural issues or defending the Vice President, the President is busy ensuring basic goods are affordable and that the daily struggles of Filipinos are eased,” she added.
Castro clarified that the Palace has not issued any official message regarding the Senate’s decision on Tuesday night to remand the impeachment complaint. She emphasized that the matter lies squarely within the jurisdiction of the Senate.
Asked whether the move could lead to a constitutional crisis, Castro, speaking in her capacity as a lawyer, said the remand depends on the Senate’s interpretation of procedures and their internal judgment.
“If they are confused or questioning the certification, they can ask the House for clarification,” she explained.
“There is a presumption of regularity once something is passed and verified. It can still be addressed during the trial, but it is ultimately the Senate’s call,” Castro added.
When asked if the President is concerned about possible political fallout from the dismissal of the impeachment complaint against Duterte, Castro dismissed the notion, saying the issue has no direct connection to the President.
“The President is not part of the debate in the Senate,” she said.
“There’s no negative impact on him. The Filipino people will see for themselves who is following due process and who might be trying to manipulate it,” Castro added.
She reiterated the President’s broader stance on governance: adherence to the rule of law, transparency, and accountability for all public officials, regardless of political affiliation.
“The procedures should be used properly and in the interest of the people,” Castro said.
“Ultimately, it is the public who will judge the actions of the Senate,” she added.
