Rep. Jude Acidre of the Tingog party-list called on the Senate to focus on the impeachment trial of the Vice President rather than pursuing other investigations.
Acidre noted that senator-allies of former President Duterte, who hold the majority in the chamber, appear to be using diversionary tactics. He pointed to ongoing cases filed against certain individuals and stressed that the Ombudsman should be allowed to complete its investigation before any matters reach the courts.
The lawmaker rejected proposals to revive a flood control probe, saying it would only serve as a distraction. He argued that the same standards of evidence and due process applied in the impeachment case should also govern other allegations.
Acidre emphasized that only the Senate holds the authority to acquit or convict the Vice President. He urged senators to concentrate on their roles as judges in the trial instead of initiating shortcuts that could muddle accountability efforts.
